(The Center Square) – State Rep. Chuck Owen is asking U.S. Sen. John Kennedy to help bring a proposed military installation to central Louisiana as the Pentagon invites states to compete for a base designed to accommodate 15,000 to 25,000 troops.

Owens asked a question from the audience during a question-and-answer session at a Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce event in Alexandria, according to KALB, pointing to federally controlled land at Fort Polk as a potential asset. Kennedy responded, “I will.”

The proposal, called the “Next Great American Base,” asks states to offer land and support for a new installation. That creates a fiscal question for any Louisiana bid: What would state and local taxpayers be asked to contribute to secure the federal investment?

Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth announced the initiative Sept. 30, inviting governors and state military leaders to make their cases for hosting the installation. He called for states to reduce regulatory barriers, provide land and support military families, according to an official account published by the Army.

Owen’s argument centers on using the military’s existing footprint in Vernon Parish. KALB reported that he identified available land at Fort Polk and past reductions in troop numbers as reasons to consider the area.

The Pentagon’s vision extends beyond conventional barracks and training grounds. Officials describe an installation capable of generating its own electricity and maintaining essential services without depending on surrounding civilian utilities.

Dale Marks, assistant secretary for energy, installations and environment, said the proposed base would use microgrids, a small nuclear reactor and water recycling systems, according to a Thursday department account. Plans also include schools, healthcare and housing for military families.