$100 million deal could save space jobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - An announcement will come this morning about a multi-million dollars deal that is expected to bring good news for the Space Coast.

Space Florida and United Launch Alliance, according to a news release, will announce a $100 million finance package that has to do with Launch Complex 41 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. That site launched Atlas V rockets, and published reports say the deal could pave the way for a second launch pad on the site.

United Launch Alliance is a joint venture between Boeing and Lockheed Martin and is responsible for all rocket launches at Kennedy Space Center.

Space Florida, co-chaired by Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp, is the state agency tasked with bringing new aerospace industry to Brevard County and the state.

News of the deal comes at a time when potentially thousands of highly-skilled workers are set to lose their jobs after the shuttle program retires next year.

The Space Florida Board of Directors is expected to give the deal final approval during their meeting at 8:30 Wednesday morning, with an announcement with United Launch Alliance to follow immediately afterwards.