(Warwick, R.I.)–Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) offered the following statement after learning today that the Base Realignment and Closure Commission (BRAC) decided against closing the Groton submarine base.

“I applaud the decision by the BRAC Commission to keep the Groton submarine base open. Today’s vote is a step in the right direction towards ensuring Groton’s place as a vital part of the nation’s defense. It was far too premature to consider closing Groton when the Pentagon is still undecided about the future of submarine fleet levels. I am hopeful the President will accept the Commission’s recommendation.

“In addition to national security, this is also good news for our neighbors in Connecticut, and for the businesses in Rhode Island that produce submarines and cutting edge support technologies. The Commission realizes that our nation must maintain its commitment to a strong and robust submarine fleet and keeping Groton alive is integral to that success. Rhode Island’s exclusive partnership has helped make southeastern New England the center of excellence for undersea warfare and it is obviously far too attractive to consider closing.

“Keeping Groton open will allow Rhode Island to continue to realize the synergy that has developed through long-standing relationships with the submarine base. The base’s importance to the region goes beyond bricks and mortar, as it fosters a bond between the business and academic communities, giving them the confidence to grow work forces, provide training and push for more advances in research and technology.

“In addition to the positive news about Groton, Rhode Island also stands to gain the Naval Officer Training Command and the Naval Supply Corps despite losing the Naval Warfare Development Command and the Naval Reserve Readiness Command. These proposed additions to Naval Station Newport fit well with its educational, research and development missions.”

It is important to note that once the BRAC Commission completes its recommendations later this week, the final list is submitted by September 8 to the President, who either accepts the list or sends it back to the Commission with further recommendations. If the Commission must again review the list, it has to resubmit its final recommendations to the President by October 20. The President then sends the recommendations to Congress, which must vote to approve or deny the entire list with 45 days.

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