Emphasizes a need to address the Red Hill Fuel Storage Facility
WASHINGTON – April 20, 2015 – (RealEstateRama) –– This week, Congressman Mark Takai (HI-01) attended a House Armed Services Committee Hearing on the Risk of Losing Military Technology Superiority and its Implications for U.S. Policy, Strategy, and Posture in the Asia-Pacific. During the hearing, Congressman Takai had the opportunity to question Admiral Samuel J. Locklear, Commander, U.S. Pacific Command, about various infrastructure needs, including the Red Hill Underground Fuel Facility.
Congressman Takai released the following statement after the conclusion of the hearing:
“With aging military infrastructure around our islands, I wanted to use this opportunity to press our military leaders on necessary infrastructure upgrades for Hawaii as we rebalance to the Asia-Pacific region. We already know Hawaii will play a central role in our upcoming national defense strategy, and that major infrastructure enhancements must be completed throughout the state to support this role. I have consistently been working on the Armed Services Committee to garner investment to make sure our troops have adequate training facilities, and the ability to mitigate impacts to our environment from these activities,” Takai said.
“Another major concern of mine that I sought to address in this hearing is the current situation with the Red Hill Underground Fuel Facility. My primary concern is ensuring that the water supply of the communities surrounding Red Hill remain safe from contamination. In response to my questions, Adm. Locklear acknowledged this issue as his top priority, and reaffirmed the military’s commitment to providing an environmentally sound solution to this problem. I will continue to work with the military, state officials, and the Armed Services Committee to move forward solutions for Hawaii,” Takai added.
The House Armed Services Committee will be considering the 2016 National Defense Authorization Act in the coming weeks, where Takai has been working on provisions to upgrade the infrastructure at many installations in Hawaii, including Red Hill.
