Politics
Jimmy Patronis upbeat about landing federal funds for NAS Pensacola
The federal funding will also provide for a pay raise for personnel at the base and increase active-duty sailors.
U.S. Rep. Jimmy Patronis is encouraged by the passage of a congressional bill that will deliver key military investments in Northwest Florida and other military interests in America.
Patronis, a Panhandle Republican, said in a news release that approval of the Consolidated Appropriations Act (HR 7148) is providing millions of dollars for military support along the Emerald Coast.
Some $3 million included in the funding in will pay for upgrades to a stretch of roadway leading to Naval Air Station Pensacola. That stretch of road runs about 1 mile.
Military personnel at the installation will get a 3.8% pay increase. And the funding will also foot the bill to increase active-duty personnel by about 12,300 sailors.
Patronis said there was no hesitation in voting in favor of the measure.
“This is great news for the Panhandle as we continue strengthening our military bases and delivering meaningful pay raises for the brave men and women who serve our country,” said Patronis. “Investments like these not only improve vital infrastructure at NAS Pensacola but ensure our service members are properly supported, and our military remains strong and ready.”
The money going to the roadway will not only improve the thoroughfare, but it will also help pay for support to surrounding businesses and neighborhood in the Pensacola area. Those upgrades will involve a vehicle turnaround area near the gate to the military installation designed to improve traffic flow and safety.
Patronis said in a news release the funding should have a substantial economic benefit for the Pensacola region.
“This pay increase will help our military families stay financially secure, strengthen readiness, and send a clear message that we invest in the people who defend our freedom,” said the news release.
The measure also includes funding for several federal service departments including Defense, Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, Transportation and Housing and Urban Development.
