Shaheen Announces Installation of New Marine Navigational System to Help Ships & Subs Navigate Piscataqua River

**The Physical Oceanographic Real-Time System, or PORTS, will provide real time information on weather & waterway conditions & greatly boost safety & efficiency for both commercial and Shipyard vessels**

(Washington, DC) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), the Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee that funds the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), announced that the agency will install a new marine navigational system at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (PNSY). The Physical Oceanographic Real-Time System, or PORTS, is an integrated series of sensors which provide critical, real-time information on oceanographic and meteorological conditions, such as water levels, currents, weather and more. The system will be installed at PNSY and significantly increase safety and efficiency for military, commercial and recreational vessels navigating the waterway. Local mariners and agencies will be able to access the information provided by this system, helping them better plan vessel transits and prevent mishaps. In her leadership role on the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Shaheen fought to secure approval and funding for this project.

“I’m thrilled to announce the installation of this new, real-time navigational system at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. This important addition to the Piscataqua River’s maritime infrastructure will enhance safety and efficiency in these challenging waters. This waterway is critical for marine transportation, including cargo and freight businesses, fishermen and especially the submarines undergoing maintenance at the Shipyard that are so important to our national security,” said Shaheen. “As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I’ll continue to push for additional resources to prioritize other needs in our community, including the Portsmouth Harbor and Piscataqua River Navigation Improvement Project.”

“Any tidal and current information available to pilots and mariners navigating Portsmouth Harbor and the Piscataqua River, particularly with large ocean-going vessels, will be a welcomed addition.  The Physical Oceanographic Real-Time Systems will strengthen the safety of the harbor and surrounding communities,” said Geno Marconi, Director of the NH Ports and Harbors.