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Stimulus funds could boost SpaceX workforce in McGregor
SpaceX, which tests rockets in McGregor, is competing for up to $150 million in federal stimulus dollars. It would use the money to develop rockets that could haul people to the International Space Station.
SpaceX officials say that the company probably could double the size of its McGregor facility, from 80 to 160, if it receives a significant percentage of the $150 million.
But securing the money won’t come easily.
U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby, R-Alabama, is fighting hard to get some, if not all, of the $150 million for a program in his state: development of the Constellation rocket program meant to replace the space shuttle when the shuttle retires after 2010. Shelby is working to defend both Constellation and Marshall Space Flight Center, the Alabama facility developing the Ares rocket vital to Constellation.
SpaceX officials say they believe SpaceX will get at least $50 million.
U.S. Rep. Chet Edwards, D-Waco, said Wednesday he strongly supports efforts by SpaceX to compete for stimulus money. He said he arranged meetings between congressional leaders and SpaceX chairman Elon Musk.
“This will be a tough fight,” said Edwards, “but we will do everything we can to help SpaceX receive a significant amount of these funds.”
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