Federal, military, business and local government leaders announced the construction of a new $250 million U.S. Space Force operations facility and the relocation of a key acquisition authority to El Paso County May 29.
New Facility Investment
$250M
PAE Portfolio Value
$4B
Projected Regional Jobs
5,700+
Speaking alongside regional leaders at the press conference, Congressman Jeff Crank (CO-05), cofounder of the House Golden Dome caucus, said the announcement represents one of the most significant federal investments in Colorado Springs’ military and aerospace ecosystem in recent years.
The Department of the Air Force selected Schriever Space Force Base in Colorado Springs as the home of a new Space Force operations facility, a project expected to generate approximately 2,500 civilian jobs and support next-generation space operations and national security missions. The announcement solidifies Colorado Springs’ status as the operational center for the U.S. Space Force, where more than half of all Guardians already serve.
In addition, the Space Force will relocate its Infrastructure Portfolio Acquisition Executive (PAE) from Los Angeles to Peterson Space Force Base. The PAE oversees a portfolio valued at approximately $4 billion and serves as a major decision-making authority for infrastructure, testing and training.
Local leaders said the move will strengthen Colorado Springs’ position as one of the nation’s premier aerospace and defense hubs by attracting additional contractors, technology firms and defense suppliers seeking proximity to acquisition and procurement decision-makers.
“This is an economic force multiplier for our region. Contracting authority, vendor offices, labor, supply chains and future investments will follow.”
Seth Harvey, CEO, Bluestaq; Chair, Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC Board
Chamber & EDC officials estimate the combined impact of the facility, acquisition authority and related growth could result in more than 5,700 jobs across the region over time.
Regional leaders also highlighted Colorado Springs’ growing role in future national security initiatives, including the Space Force’s modernization efforts and emerging Golden Dome missile defense architecture.
Harvey and El Paso County Commissioner Carrie Geitner linked this announcement to the Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC’s decision to file an amicus brief supporting the federal government’s Space Command decision and said that Colorado Springs standing publicly with its military partners demonstrates the value of presenting a united front on issues affecting national security, military readiness and the region’s aerospace economy.