Senator Lisa Brown
P.O. Box 40403
Olympia WA 98504					

 			            	                                                         March 2009

Dear Senator Brown,                 

	The Armed Forces & Aerospace Museum plays a vibrant role in Spokane’s future.  This innovative installation on this exceptional site, will provide educational opportunities and history of all branches of the military from the Buffalo Soldiers and Forts to modern peace-keeping efforts in addition to the many contributions to aviation development in this area.
	This proposed project, which has received a Silver rating from the United States Green Building Council, will be shovel ready this Summer.  Phase 1A will be a substantial and instant economic stimulus with construction producing $7.6 M in new expenditures, $6 M in earnings, 150 jobs, $159,600 local taxes and $494,000 state taxes.
	Imagine visitors arriving in Spokane on I- 90 from the west.  Their first impression of this area will be formed from the sight of this magnificent structure and a unique and historic B-52 just a few yards from the freeway.  Whether they are here to visit this museum, or the North West Museum of Arts and Culture, the Fox Theater, the Veterans Memorial Arena, the Science Center or one of the many other operational or proposed area venues, their first impression of what Spokane has to offer will be positive and lasting.
	The Armed Forces & Aerospace Museum  has a host of positive components to offer in Spokane ranging from economic stimulus, educational opportunities, military and aviation history, environmental friendliness and will serve as a large and attractive welcome sign at Spokane’s west gateway.
	Request your positive support in securing funding for this shovel ready project.

Sincerely,