The federal government is in the midst of a major upgrade of Mount Weather, aka the High Point Special Facility. This spectacular facility is located 64 miles west of the nation’s capitol, tucked away in Virginia’s beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. This facility fits into a rapidly growing network of underground sites across the United States. All of these sites are purpose built to house and protect federal leaders in times of crisis.
Mount Weather occupies 564 acres and contains a mix of above- and below-ground facilities. Like Colorado’s Cheyenne Mountain bunker, it can survive a nuclear attack. There in the bunker itself, they went on, buildings constructed of battleship steel and supported on massive springs that would cushion the shock of an explosive strike. The exact nature of the upgrades at Mount Weather is still classified, with contractors working on the site needing to possess top secret security clearances.
In early April, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited Mount Weather, where she engaged with staff and posed for photos outside the complex alongside the facility’s full-time fire department and armed FEMA security guards. During her visit, she emphasized the importance of the facility, stating:
“This DHS Command Center is crucial to emergency relief and federal coordination in the face of disaster.” – Kristi Noem
These upgrades are poised to significantly increase Mount Weather’s capabilities even further. FEMA representatives highlighted the facility’s unique offerings, noting that:
“The breadth and depth of capabilities offered by Mount Weather make it a unique facility.” – FEMA
Mount Weather’s massive construction project requires craftsmen, particularly those who specialize in underground construction and HVAC systems. Their specialization, particularly with respect to air handlers, is critical to maintaining the facility easily during an emergency. The specific details of the work are still ongoing and under wraps, highlighting the sensitive nature of this strategic forward site.
Physical access to Mount Weather is quick. It is less than 30 minutes by helicopter from Capitol Hill. The facility includes an underground, 300-person-capacity cafeteria area. This design is already demonstrating its preparedness for long-term operations during emergencies.
Mount Weather is one of the federal government’s most important “continuity of government” sites. It directly underpins federal efforts to respond during national emergencies. With these new upgrades, the government demonstrates its commitment to improving security at this vital point of passage. Their undisclosed price tag speaks to their commitment to operational readiness.
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