U.S. Navy Unveils Plans for New National Museum in Washington

Updated: November 18, 2020 (Originally published October 14, 2020)

The U.S. Navy announced today plans to bring new museum to the U.S. Capital.

The announcement was made Tuesday by the Secretary of the Navy Kenneth J. Braithwaite at the Washington Navy Yard the Navy’s intention to build the new flagship National Museum of the U.S. Navy. The day also marked the Navy’s official celebration of its 245th Birthday.

Renderings of the new campus were also unveiled.

The current National Museum of the U.S. Navy, which falls under Naval History and Heritage Command (NHHC), is located inside the Washington Navy Yard. The Navy said the preferred location for the new museum is in the vicinity of the historic Navy Yard, but the final location is not yet finalized.

Talk about a great #245NavyBDay present!#ICYMI: @SECNAV Kenneth J. Braithwaite announced on 13 October 2020 at the Washington Navy Yard that the #USNavy intends to build a new National Museum of the U.S. Navy (NMUSN). @USNHistory

FULL STORY: https://t.co/10iN3AZ75P pic.twitter.com/hDtpaPkDdJ

— U.S. Navy (@USNavy) October 14, 2020

“It is vital that the American people understand the importance of a strong and viable naval force. As a Maritime Nation, our future depends on it,” said Braithwaite.

“On behalf of the United States Navy, and with deepest gratitude to every one of our great partners, it is my honor to announce plans for a new campus for the National Museum of the United States Navy. The new museum campus will serve as an educational, inspirational, cultural and ceremonial center for those who have served, and are serving in the Navy today. The exhibits in this advanced museum will demonstrate the critical role the Navy has played in the defense of our Nation.”

The Navy said estimated cost for the construction phase of the new museum is $204 million, with additional phases costing $450 million.

Groundbreaking is planned for 2023 with the construction phase planned for 2025.

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