UAH 'extremely grateful' to Katie Britt, Dale Strong for securing $10 million in federal funding for research and expansion

University of Alabama in Huntsville leaders thanked Senator Katie Britt and Rep. Dale Strong for federal funding tied to the Exploration Plaza expansion; project materials reference $10 million designated for artificial intelligence research infrastructure as part of a broader federal package.

University of Alabama in Huntsville leaders publicly praised U.S. Senator Katie Britt and U.S. Rep. Dale Strong for securing federal funding tied to the university's Exploration Plaza expansion. Campus and UA System officials said the support will accelerate research, innovation, and student opportunity in Huntsville. The lawmakers were credited for using their appropriations roles to help advance the initiative. University leaders described Exploration Plaza as a large, multi-phase effort to expand research and campus-industry collaboration. What is known: - University officials credited Senator Katie Britt and Congressman Dale Strong with helping secure federal support tied to UAH's Exploration Plaza expansion. - Project materials reference $10 million designated for artificial intelligence research infrastructure as part of a broader federal package supporting Alabama priorities. - Exploration Plaza is described in planning materials as about 58 acres of multi-phase, mixed-use expansion intended to add research space, student-focused facilities, and industry partnership opportunities. - UA System Chancellor Sid J. Trant and UAH President Dr. Chuck Karr said the funding will advance innovative research, enhance student life, and strengthen collaboration with industry partners. - Officials stated the development is expected to generate economic activity, expand job opportunities, and add amenities for the campus and surrounding Huntsville community. Summary: University leaders say the designated federal support will help move Exploration Plaza forward and build research capacity, including in artificial intelligence, while reinforcing Huntsville's role as an innovation hub. Officials expect the development to create economic activity and jobs; specific timelines and the detailed distribution of funds are undetermined at this time.