This should have been done 20 years ago. Ask your elected representative why this hasn't been done. Watch a confused look flash across his face.
The confused face would just be a put-on though. They know exactly why it hasn't been done. Money needs to be spread about in such a way as to insure reelection. There are maybe a dozen guys between the House and Senate that truly work for the best interests of the country.
Spending money on far sighted R&D and exploration things does NOT insure reelection...
That is probably the main factor. Election and reelection puts a very short limit to any planning for development. Any project needs to be over in 2 years.