Congressman Andrew R. Garbarino (R-Patchogue), a member of the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) Board of Visitors, recently introduced bipartisan legislation to authorize more than $1 billion over 10 years for a full-scale campus modernization of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point.
The bill is cosponsored by Representatives Laura Gillen (D-Garden City), Nick LaLota (R-Rocky Point), Tom Suozzi (D-Glen Cove), and Jen Kiggans (R-Virginia).
“For generations, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy has trained the men and women who keep our supply chains moving and our national defense strong,” Garbarino said. “But the infrastructure on campus must keep up with the rigorous demands placed on today’s Midshipmen. This bill ensures the academy remains a world-class institution worthy of its mission.”
The legislation authorizes $1.02 billion from FY2026 to FY2035 via the Maritime Security Trust Fund, beginning with $54 million for design and planning in the first year and annual construction funding of over $107 million thereafter. The bill calls for full operational continuity at the Academy throughout construction and recommends using design-build contracting to speed delivery and reduce costs.
“For more than 80 years, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy has been the pride of Long Island,” Gillen said. “As one of America’s five service academies, USMMA is a pathway for young Americans to serve our country and contribute to our maritime security.”
“To ensure the Merchant Marine Academy continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of maritime and national security leaders, Congress must invest in its infrastructure, which has languished since the mid-20th century,” LaLota said. “Doing so is essential to providing Midshipmen, who will go on to serve America around the globe, with the education and hands-on training they need to excel in critical industries like marine transportation and defense. Upgrading these facilities will strengthen the Academy’s ability to prepare top-tier officers and ensure it remains a premier institution for the nation’s future maritime leaders.”
“The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy is a national treasure that has been neglected for decades. It is time to restore it to its former glory!” said Suozzi.