Dream chasing: Strong relaunches legislation to fund space transportation infrastructure 

WASHINGTON – Reinforcing the area’s influence in the U.S. space program, U.S. Rep. Dale W. Strong has re-introduced the Spaceport Project Opportunities for Resilient Transportation (SPACEPORT) Act.

The legislation would provide dedicated federal support to U.S. spaceports, ensuring the nation can meet growing civil, commercial, and national security demands for space transportation.

“The United States continues to set the pace in space exploration, and North Alabama stands at the heart of that momentum,” Strong (R-Huntsville) said. “During my time as chairman of the Madison County Commission, I worked closely with community leaders and industry partners to help secure Huntsville International Airport’s designation as the nation’s first licensed reentry site for space vehicles.

“With unmatched capabilities across civil, commercial, and national security space programs, North Alabama is uniquely positioned to drive the infrastructure that will define the next generation of space innovation.”

Spaceports are ground-based launch and reentry sites for spacecraft. Huntsville International Airport was the first commercial airport approved by the FAA to serve as a reentry site and accommodate space vehicle landings.

“We are very excited about the SPACEPORT Act,” said Butch Roberts, CEO of Huntsville International Airport. “This legislation would secure funding for infrastructure investments that would enhance the ability of spaceports, including Huntsville International Airport (HSV), to accommodate future commercial space transportation needs. HSV is the first commercial airport in the U.S. to be approved by the Federal Aviation Administration as a reentry site for space vehicle landings.

“The landing of Dream Chaser at Huntsville International Airport is part of a vision for community growth that builds upon our history of space, science, and exploration, and this legislation will help us compete for future commercial space economic opportunities. We applaud Congressman Strong for his leadership in support of legislation that will ensure strong and resilient space transportation capabilities.”

The SPACEPORT Act underscores a bipartisan and bicameral commitment to ensuring the U.S. remains the leader in space transportation and exploration by modernizing and reauthorizing the Federal Aviation Administration’s Space Transportation Infrastructure Matching grant program.