CLEVELAND — NASA Glenn Research Center in Cleveland was recently awarded $33.8 million in federal funding to build a new Aerospace Communications facility, according to a release from the office of U.S. Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur.
“Our region is home to a world-class aerospace workforce and this investment cements our region’s critical role in space communications for NASA’s evolving 21st century mission,” said Rep. Kaptur in a statement.
The project will upgrade the research center's capabilities by installing higher frequency radio communications equipment. The upgrades include the installation of geothermal borehole field, new asphalt parking areas and exterior site work.
The project has been awarded to Austin Building and Design in Cleveland.
The new 54,000-square-foot facility will house approximately 25 research and development laboratories specifically designed and constructed for communication technologies. The building will comply with the Americans Disabilities Act requirements.
In addition to the laboratory spaces, the building and grounds will include a large, shielded high-bay space, along with a rooftop and ground-based antennae fields.
“The men and women who make up this workforce are at the center of aerospace innovation and play a central role in advancing U.S. leadership in space exploration. I am pleased to see that NASA has made this significant investment in NASA Glenn. With it, Northern Ohio will continue to grow as an aerospace hub. It is an honor to represent the men and women serving our nation at NASA Glenn," Kaptur in a news release.
NASA did not yet release the start date for construction.
RELATED: News 5's Trent Magill takes behind-the-scenes tour of NASA Glenn Research Center
