She wants rare piece of aerospace history brought to its birthplace in the Antelope Valley.
Assemblywoman Sharon Runner has officially pledged ongoing support for a renewed effort to bring a retiring Space Shuttle Orbiter back to its birthplace in the Antelope Valley.
Assemblywoman Runner in 2006 authored and unanimously passed Assembly Joint Resolution in support of retiring the Orbiter Atlantis to Air Force Plant 42 in Palmdale.
“The just-announced formation of the Coalition to Bring a Space Shuttle Orbiter Home is a necessary next step in making this mission successful,” Runner said.
While work to land an orbiter for permanent display has been under way for more than two years, with the Aerospace Industry Committee of the Antelope Valley Board of Trade previously taking the lead, Runner said the next critical step is to quickly create the detailed business plan needed to attract investment in the project.
“Members of my legislative and district staff have been closely involved in helping the various organizations working to bring a shuttle orbiter home, and I am keenly aware of the obstacles to be overcome in a very short time. However, I believe that by working together on a Valley-wide base, all of those obstacles can be overcome.”
“Having a space shuttle orbiter will enhance the Valley’s already impressive collection of aerospace vehicles,” she added.
The Assemblywoman said her office will be represented at a coalition meeting scheduled at the Aero Institute in Palmdale on Sept. 23.