The state of Missouri has given its final approval to an agreement that will bring the summer training camp of the Kansas City Chiefs to Missouri Western State University, Gov. Jay Nixon announced today.

"Bringing the Chiefs training camp to Missouri Western’s campus will be great for the university, for the St. Joseph community and for the state of Missouri," Gov. Jay Nixon said. "Missouri Western’s students and the community will benefit from a top-notch new athletic facility, and the regional and state economy will get a significant boost from increased employment and tourism. I appreciate the hard work and dedication of the members of my administration, the Chiefs organization, Missouri Western and the St. Joseph community that helped us finalize this important agreement. Together, we’ve reached a consensus that brings this major investment to the state of Missouri, while ensuring the most responsible use of our taxpayer resources."

"This is a transformational moment for our university and our community," said Dr. Robert Vartabedian, Western’s president.  "Many people have worked many years to make this happen, and we’re certainly grateful. There are too many names to thank everyone individually, but I would be remiss if I didn’t express our special appreciation to the governor; Senator Charlie Shields; Dirck Clark, the chair of our Board of Governors; Dave Williams, our athletic director; and Clark Hunt and Denny Thum of the Chiefs. They’ve worked tirelessly over the last several months to reach an agreement that benefits all of us."

For more information on the Chiefs training camp, go to www.missouriwestern.edu

Formal groundbreaking ceremonies are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Monday, June 29.