Rep. Gillen Leads Bipartisan Group of Lawmakers in Reviewing Campus Modernization Plan and Critical Infrastructure Needs

April 26, 2026 Press Release Image Kings Point, NY — Today, Congresswoman Laura Gillen (NY-04) visited the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, New York, to review the Campus Modernization Plan and to assess urgent infrastructure needs across the campus. The visit brought together a bipartisan group of Rep. Gillen’s colleagues, including Ranking Member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Rick Larsen (WA-02), along with Trump Administration officials, including Rear Admiral (RADM) Ceraolo, Superintendent of the Academy; Dr. Byrd, Assistant Secretary for Administration; RADM Shea, Director of Facilities and Infrastructure; and representatives from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy plays a critical role in our national security and economic strength,” said Rep. Gillen . “These Midshipmen deserve safe and modern facilities that ensure the Academy continues to be capable of training future generations of mariners. I was glad to lead a bipartisan group of my colleagues and showcase the importance of this world-class institution to Long Island and the country.” Last December, Rep. Gillen wrote a letter to the Chairman and Ranking Member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee asking them to organize a visit for Members to visit the Campus, to evaluate the dire need for updates and modernization.  She emphasized that this effort is an important step toward advancing the long-overdue modernization needs at Kings Point and is glad that Secretary Duffy and the Trump Administration have made it a priority to help secure these much-needed upgrades. The Committee and Secretary Duffy later heeded her call. Rep. Gillen also highlighted her continued work in Congress to advance long-term investment in the Academy’s infrastructure. In March 2025, she joined a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers in introducing legislation directing the Department of Transportation to develop and implement a comprehensive Campus Modernization Plan for USMMA, and to authorize more than $1 billion for a full-scale campus modernization of the Academy. ###