The firm studying the impact of Fort Riley downsizing, Matrix Design Group, has developed recommendations for the region.

The gradual downsizing at the post has totaled 2,345 soldiers. In dealing with that, and any future potential downsizing of one, two or three thousand troops, Matrix Design Group said their top recommendation deals with state level advocacy. The area needs to protect and grow the military missions, the state should undertake programs and funding to protect those missions. Matrix said anything that can be done to carve out resources for that is the most important thing that can be done to protect this area.

They told a Junction City public meeting that the state needs to position Kansas as a gainer in the next round of base realignment and closure because it will be about saving dollars. But it was pointed out during public discussion from the audience with the state’s financial problems it will be difficult now with the current gubernatorial administration.

Other recommendations included development of a talent pipeline to retain military personnel leaving Fort Riley and put them to work locally, work with the seven-county economic development district designation to compete for federal grants, and economic diversification.

Matrix officials reviewed a rough draft their final plan, and will present a final report to the region in about one month.