BRAC 2005: Improving Reception
Abstract
The Department of Defense has begun preparations for the next round of Base Realignment and Closure in 2005. At the same time, communities, cities, and states have begun efforts to "BRAC-proof" their local installations. This effort at both ends of the spectrum makes the task of base closure or realignment that much more difficult, the decisions that much harder to accept, and misses an opportunity to get a jump on the reuse of the closed property. Closer integration between the military, the community, and local and state governments before, during, and after the BRAC decisions are made will minimize the pain on all parties. The fact is, excess defense infrastructure exists and the Department of Defense must determine the best way to reduce this unneeded excess while transforming the remaining infrastructure to support the future force. BRAC 2005 will be unlike any of the previous rounds. In addition to using it to reduce excess infrastructure, the Secretary of Defense has positioned the process to be a shaping function for the future force. The major challenge facing BRAC 2005 will be in the political arena. Keeping the support of Congress to implement BRAC 2005 is critical. (41 refs.)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 19, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA424070
Entities
People
- Scott E. Rein
Organizations
- United States Army War College