RECORD STAFF

Whidbey Island Naval Air Station will receive an initial $7 million investment to prepare for the arrival of P-8A Poseidon aircraft at the base, Second District Rep. Rick Larsen announced Thursday.

The Navy will use the funds to design the new P-8A aircraft hangar and the expansion of the aircraft parking apron.

“It’s time to make room, because the P-8As are coming to Whidbey Island,” Larsen said. “This substantial investment shows there is no question that the Navy recognizes Whidbey Island as the right place to base the P-8As.”

The Navy notified Congress of its plans to invest in the airfield this week.

Larsen was a determined advocate to bring the P-8As to Whidbey Island. He pressed Navy officials to maintain their commitment to bring the aircraft to Whidbey Island, including during a visit by Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jonathan Greenert in August. He hailed the news in November that the Navy is considering doubling the P-8A presence at the base.