LILLINGTON, NC (AP) So many contractors wanted to learn about getting military work at Fort Bragg that a meeting where organizers expected approximately 50 people had to cut off registration at approximately 200.

The meeting Jan. 31 was held to acquaint Harnett County businesses with available military contracts. Construction at Fort Bragg involves renovation of housing as well as new barracks and office buildings.

“We want to put some of this money to work in Harnett County and in your pockets,” said Lee Anne Nance, director of the county’s economic development office.

Col. Al Aycock, garrison commander at Fort Bragg, said it appears that the military will spend at least $300 million a year on construction for the next decade.

“I tell people if they want to see what Fort Bragg used to look like, take a picture today,” Aycock said. “There is going to be a lot of work at Fort Bragg out there for people who are willing to go and get it.”

One project will be renovation and replacement of base housing. More than 2,500 homes will be built and approximately 2,000 will be remodeled.

Representatives came from eastern North Carolina bases seeking contractors who would move to their areas temporarily to do work.