With around 15,000 soldiers, another 15,000 family members and over 5,000 civilian employees, the post has an enormous economic impact. The annual economic impact estimate is over $4 billion with a direct impact of just under $2 billion. While this is an overall number, it is natural to assume that a significant amount of this impact is on the Manhattan region.
The situation in Europe has created a lot of uncertainty for our military. We are mindful of the dangerous situation that is being presented to the people across eastern Europe and western Asia. This danger has created a need for the United States to increase its presence in the region. This decision has impacted Fort Riley.
First, the 1st Infantry Division Headquarters and Division Artillery Brigade was deployed to eastern Europe earlier this year and will be there at least through early 2023. The 1st Armor Brigade was deployed as well, but has returned. The 2nd Armor Brigade is on the second rotation this year at the National Training Center in California and we will continue to watch their next assignment.
As a region, our business and community leaders are coming together on a regular basis with our federal delegation to monitor what is going on across the world and its impact on our communities. We are grateful for the support of Sen. Jerry Moran and Sen. Roger Marshall as well as Rep. Tracey Mann and their teams for being available and supportive.
We will also continue to prioritize key improvements such as the rail head in Camp Funston, new barracks for potential expanded missions and a member of the Kansas delegation volunteering to serve on either the senate or house armed services committee. The Chamber's leadership will be in Washington D.C. in September promoting these initiatives.
We are laser focused on making sure Fort Riley has everything it needs to grow and prosper with the 1st Infantry Division. We will continue to work with regional, state and federal partners on this mission and will keep you informed as things progress.
In the meantime, if you would like to become more involved with our military relations program, contact Janet Nichols at Janet@manhattan.org.