USDA, DHS formalize transition $1.2 billion NBAF research facility

Two agencies of the federal government signed an agreement outlining the construction-to-operation transition of the $1.2 billion National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility under development in Manhattan, Kansas officials said.

Gov. Laura Kelly said Friday the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security completed a memorandum formally spelling out how the departments would transfer the animal research complex from DHS to USDA.

Under terms of the deal, DHS is to lead construction and commissioning of the facility. USDA will assume responsibility for operational planning and eventually take over management control of NBAF. Construction is on scheduled and on budget for completion in December 2020. Commissioning of the lab is expected in May 2021, when ownership is to transfer to USDA.

(Read more: Leavenworth Times)