History of the PORTS Site
In 1952, the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) announced an expansion of the nation’s atomic energy program in support of the Cold War. A key part of that effort was the construction of a new gaseous diffusion plant to increase production of fissionable materials.
President Truman signed a bill appropriating funds in part for the expansion of enrichment plants in Oak Ridge, TN and Paducah, KY, along with construction of a new plant. After extensive study, Pike County, Ohio was selected for the new site. The new location offered access to reliable power, dependable water supply, and a strong regional labor force.
Today, the Portsmouth site is undergoing one of the largest environmental cleanup and redevelopment efforts in the United States. The U.S. Department of Energy is removing former enrichment facilities, restoring land, and preparing areas for future industrial development.
Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Site in Photos
Photos courtesy of the PORTS Virtual Museum.
Learn more at the PORTS Virtual Museum.
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