October 13, 1999

Press Release | Contact: Kathie Eastman (202) 225-6416


WASHINGTON, DC—Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-Springfield) announced today that the House of Representatives has approved legislation providing initial funding for a new National Guard facility in Lane County, paving the way for transfer of the old facility to Lane County for completion of its Youth Campus.

"This funding is a down payment on Lane County's dream for a comprehensive youth services facility for troubled kids," DeFazio said. "Last year's tragedy at Thurston High School demonstrates the desperate need for more investment in our nation's youth and in providing adequate resources to help families in crisis. In the Youth Campus project, Congress has an excellent opportunity to help troubled kids in our community."

Funding for the new National Guard facility was included in legislation approved on the House floor today to fund Department of Defense projects in fiscal year 2000. The legislation includes $3 million to facilitate the relocation of Eugene's National Guard Armory. The Oregon National Guard needs a larger, more modern facility to accommodate its expanded needs. The current armory is located adjacent to property already acquired by the county for the Youth Campus. Building a new Guard facility elsewhere in Lane County will allow the County to purchase the current Guard property and building for the Youth Campus.

When completed, the Youth Campus will provide a mix of secure custody and residential treatment programs for juvenile offenders. The campus will be developed adjacent to and around the current Skipworth Detention Center and the County Department of Youth Services. Use of the current National Guard site is critical within the overall campus design. The facility will provide a structure that could be used for work-training and counseling.

"This is great news," said Steve Carmichael, Director of Lane County's Department of Youth Services. "With the House action we are one step closer to completing the county's vision for a Youth Campus first endorsed by county voters in a 1995 ballot initiative. This funding shows the important congressional commitment to the project as well."

Funding was approved in 1996 for site acquisition for a new Eugene Armory. The $3 million approved by the House today will be used for site development. Approximately $14 million in additional funds is needed to construct the facility. The U.S. Senate is expected to approve the House legislation shortly. It must subsequently be signed into law by the President.

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