8legs: Janet petro

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Florida without Kennedy Space Center? Director sounds alarm over relationship

Florida lawmakers and Space Florida clash over funding and control of infrastructure around Kennedy Space Center as Artemis II nears launch.
Kennedy Space Center director Janet Petro warns state funding is needed for roads, utilities, and facilities to support growing space traffic.
Texas accelerates space investments, while Florida funds infrastructure through Space Florida rather than direct cash grants.
Space Florida argues for long-term partnerships and market growth instead of direct cash incentives.
NASA notes infrastructure funding typically falls outside its budget, complicating state development plans.
Lawmakers consider bills to delineate federal vs. state development authority around spaceport land.
Petro warns that lack of infrastructure funds could delay launches at Kennedy Space Center.
Kennedy hosts a mix of government and commercial launches, intensifying the need for reliable infrastructure.
Space Florida faces tensions over who leads development around federally owned spaceport lands.
The dispute underscores Florida’s broader role in a regional space industry rivaled by Texas.

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