CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — “We would like to further discuss how we might make lands on [Kennedys Space Center] available for Florida’s use,” Statler wrote.
After an outcry from project supporters, NASA on Jan. 25 said it had not rejected Florida’s proposal for Kennedy Space Center property.
“The land in question has not been designated as excess, however we are assessing available options as we continue to work with the state of Florida to achieve their goals. There are many authorities that will allow us to support commercial launch activities — transferring land is only one of those mechanisms,” NASA said in a statement.
Space Florida also had requested NASA turn over the shuttle runway and related facilities, with the idea of leasing it out to commercial firms interested in horizontal takeoff and landing vehicles.
NASA said it would handle this request separately and in conjunction with its ongoing assessment of proposals by other entities wishing to operate the Shuttle Landing Facility.
“We are continuing dialogue with NASA regarding next steps,” Space Florida spokeswoman Tina Lange said.
