Gina M. Raimondo, Secretary of Commerce | Ballotpedia
NOAA broke ground on a new Marine Operations Center facility in Newport, Rhode Island, with funding from President Biden's Investing in America Agenda. The groundbreaking ceremony took place at Naval Station Newport, where the future home of the NOAA Marine Operations Center-Atlantic will be located.
U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo expressed gratitude for the transformative investments being made, stating, "President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda made it possible for NOAA to construct this new facility and make advances in critical climate and ocean research." The facility is designed to accommodate four large vessels, a floating dock for smaller vessels, and space for repairs and parking, with construction set to be completed by 2027.
NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad highlighted the facility's climate considerations, stating, "It will be LEED certified and will soon be the homeport for one of our newest, lower emissions vessels, working towards the goal to minimize NOAA’s own impact on the environment."
Rear Admiral Nancy Hann, Director of the NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps, emphasized the importance of the new facility to NOAA's mission and its commitments to various partners. She acknowledged the support received from local, state, and congressional leaders, as well as partners at Naval Station Newport.
Senator Reed expressed satisfaction in bringing NOAA's research fleet and operations center to Rhode Island, noting the positive impact on job creation and the state's Blue Economy. Senator Whitehouse echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the research conducted at the center's new location.
Congressman Gabe Amo highlighted the economic benefits of NOAA's expanding presence in Rhode Island, emphasizing the importance of climate-resilient infrastructure. Governor Dan McKee also expressed pride in Rhode Island being selected as the home of the new facility, recognizing the long-term benefits it will bring to the state.
The new Marine Operations Center facility in Rhode Island is expected to not only support NOAA's vital research and operations but also contribute to job growth and climate resilience efforts in the region.
