Redstone Arsenal Poised for Growth, Says US Rep. Dale Strong

US Representative Dale Strong is confident that Huntsville’s Redstone Arsenal is ready to accommodate expected growth. During a discussion with lawmakers on Thursday, they addressed the development of the base and upcoming changes within the FBI.

“We have around 45,000 acres and plenty of space to expand,” Strong (R-Huntsville) commented. “We have a competent workforce. Look, we already have approximately 2,200 seats filled and a fully completed cyber facility.”

Strong also highlighted the ongoing restructuring within the FBI, criticizing what he described as a disproportionate focus on leadership issues affecting average citizens over the past four years.

“There are various facets to this challenge. We can collaborate effectively. We need to focus on cyber initiatives and improve training,” Strong noted. “First and foremost, the FBI must ensure it isn’t being misused against the public. Much of the issue lies with the J Edgar Hoover building, where over 6,000 employees are based.”

“The real issue is the mindset on the fifth floor of Washington, DC. They seem to forget crucial matters, like eavesdropping incidents,” he added, reflecting on broader concerns about the FBI’s actions.

Strong remains hopeful that current leadership changes can rectify these issues, despite the history of problems. “It’s definitely a challenging atmosphere there,” he said. “Donald Trump expressed his intentions to address these matters during his campaign, and I have faith that things will improve.”

Currently, Redstone Arsenal employs more than 1,300 FBI staff members, while, according to recent reports, the department had over 9,000 employees in Washington as of June 2024.