The Oregon State Legislature's Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Public Safety meeting highlighted significant advancements in military training facilities, particularly at the REACH Training Center in Umatilla County. The center, now fully operational, boasts a state-of-the-art automated record firing range that enables year-round weapons training, overcoming previous challenges posed by harsh winter conditions.

Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the installations division, led by Todd Farmer and Jim Arnold, the project has successfully leveraged federal funding to enhance training capabilities. This initiative not only underscores the importance of federal investment in state projects but also reflects a commitment to improving military readiness.

In addition to the firing range, the REACH Training Center has seen substantial infrastructure development, with four barracks already constructed to house 376 service members, and another four barracks currently underway, set to accommodate an additional 305 personnel. This expansion is crucial for supporting the growing needs of military training in the region.

The ongoing improvements at the REACH Training Center signify a robust investment in public safety and military preparedness, ensuring that Oregon's service members have access to the best training facilities available. As these projects continue to develop, they promise to enhance the operational capabilities of the state's military forces.