ML20082K166
| ML20082K166 | |
| Person / Time | |
|---|---|
| Site: | 05000606 |
| Issue date: | 04/10/1995 |
| From: | Brown R ARKANSAS TECH UNIV., RUSSELLVILLE, AR |
| To: | Alexander Adams NRC (Affiliation Not Assigned) |
| References | |
| NUDOCS 9504190105 | |
| Download: ML20082K166 (1) | |
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,[d - (0UP sen ARKANSAS TECH UNIVERSITY v
Y Russellville, Arkansas 72801-2222 * * '"*'" " "*"*
501-968-0237 April 10,1995 Mr. Alexander Adams, Jr., Project Manager Non-Power Reactor, Decommissioning and Environmental Project Directorate Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission Washington, D.C. 20555
Dear Mr. Adams:
A recommendation to not install a TRIGA research reactor at Arkansas Tech University has been approved by the University's Board of Trustees. I, therefore, request that Arkansas Tech University's application for a constmetion permit be withdrawn. When decisions concerning the disposition of the reactor are made, Arkansas Tech University will provide this information to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
Many factors were considered during deliberations leadmg to the decision not to install the reactor. A major concern was the absence of financial support from government agencies and industry The reactor project was initiated in 1987 with fmancial support from industry and there were some prospects for support from govenunental agencies at that time. After funding for facilities construction was secured, there was a two-year delay in construction due to requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act. During the fund-raising and constmetion period, support from industry ended and prospects of support from other sources were drastically reduced. In the final analysis, lack of a stable source of operating funds nude no other decision possible for the University.
The inspection fee issue also had an impact on the decision ntiing process. There are concems that continue in spite of the Commissions' rule to exempt university reactors. The fee issue focused attention on the financial risks associated with operation of a research reactor.
With regard to interfacing with NRC staff, I wish to state on behalf of all of Arkansas Tech University personnel that were involved in this project that we were completely satisfied ,
with communications and interactions with the staff. Our impression is that we are dealing with knowledgeable professionals who fhlfilled their role as regulator.
Sincerely
] g } ,j 3 d' t obert Char es Brown President 9504190105 950410 PDR P ADOCK 05000606 PDR OI O
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