The ribbon cutting for the first 92 units occurred on 28 January 2000. We also have nine other pilot projects in various stages of development, allowing us to take a measured approach to this program and help reduce the housing revitalization backlog in a more timely manner. We firmly believe that, through privatization, we can provide improved housing to more airmen in less time than using the standard military construction process. We request your support by extending the housing privatization authorities beyond February 11, 2001. We have 435 systems identified as candidates for utilities privatization.
All systems are already under analysis.
Request for Proposals for 34 systems were issued in January. These efforts will allow the Air Force to meet or exceed the Defense Reform Initiative milestones for utility privatization. We'll continue to make the best use of resources at our disposal and, just as importantly, on the ingenuity and dedication of our officers, enlisted personnel, civilians, and contractors, to operate and maintain our bases to the best of our ability. However, tough choices still lie ahead for the Air Force. As General Ryan stated during his recent testimony before this committee, the Air Force has identified a priority list that includes items related to personnel, readiness, modernization, and a very large need to support our infrastructure.