POCATELLO — Rep. Mike Simpson has secured $4 million in funding for the Idaho Accelerator Center Upgrades Project in Pocatello.

The funding comes through Community Project Funding in H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science, Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act 2026, according to a news release from Simpson’s office.

Simpson said Idaho State University and its researchers are able to produce medical isotopes at the Idaho Accelerator Center.

“The university addresses a long-term demand, positioning Pocatello as a national hub for this critical medical technology,” Simpson said in the news release. “As a longtime supporter of the Idaho Accelerator Center, I have been proud to secure funding for this facility throughout my time in Congress. I am pleased this year’s funding will continue to help the center meet our nation’s demands for medical isotopes and significantly advance nuclear research.”

ISU President Robert Wagner said the university was excited to learn the funding had been secured.

“This will enable ISU to advance our research capabilities and contribute to the scientific community in meaningful ways,” Wagner said in the news release.

Jon Stoner, director of the Idaho Accelerator Center, said upgrading the center’s infrastructure and capability strengthens ISU’s role in linking technical education with important research.

“The IAC can further its mission of supporting leading edge research at several national laboratories and provide a unique facility for the creative minds of the future,” Stoner said in the news release.

Martin Blair, ISU vice president for research and economic development, said Simpson’s support of the Idaho Accelerator Center serves national interests.

“We appreciate his commitment to ensuring that Idaho’s research capacity can meet the needs of today and a rapidly changing tomorrow,” Blair said in the news release. “ISU students and faculty will benefit for many years to come.”

The Idaho Accelerator Center operates particle accelerators that support the Department of Energy and other national laboratories in nuclear science, new reactor designs and production of medical isotopes.

The funding will be used to upgrade the center with possible improvements including modifications to shielding, new hot cells and construction of a larger particle accelerator.

Community Project Funding gives members of Congress the opportunity to direct federal tax dollars to their states and districts. The federal money designated for these projects is tied to existing budget limits.