Morris County leaders join second annual ‘Picatinny Charge’ in Washington to back arsenal’s mission
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A delegation of Morris County commissioners, state lawmakers, business leaders and community advocates traveled to Washington, D.C., this month to reaffirm support for Picatinny Arsenal during the second annual Picatinny Enhancement Coalition “Picatinny Charge,” held Dec. 1–3.
Morris County Commissioners Tayfun Selen, Stephen Shaw and Christine Myers joined the coalition, led by State Sen. Anthony Bucco, to emphasize Picatinny’s essential role in U.S. military readiness and its significant economic impact on both Morris County and New Jersey.
“The second annual Picatinny Charge reinforced Picatinny’s critical role in strengthening our nation’s military readiness, while driving innovation and research and supporting our local economy,” said Director Selen.
The three-day visit included high-level briefings at the Pentagon, meetings on Capitol Hill with members of Congress, and events highlighting Picatinny’s mission as the U.S. Army’s premier center for munitions development. Delegates met with Army leadership and senior policymakers, and heard remarks from Chris Grassano, director of the Armaments Center, and Maj. Gen. John Reim, commanding general of Picatinny Arsenal.
“Picatinny’s impact extends far beyond its gates. Its workforce, research capabilities, and partnerships fuel economic growth across Morris County and New Jersey,” Deputy Director Shaw said. “Supporting its future is essential to both our region and our nation.”
Commissioner Myers said the annual visit again demonstrated the strength of local and statewide backing for the installation. “This year’s visit reaffirmed our unified commitment to securing Picatinny’s long-term success. Investing in Picatinny means investing in our national security, innovation and opportunities for New Jersey businesses,” she said.
Picatinny Arsenal is the second-largest employer in Morris County, staffed by scientists, engineers, military personnel and civilian employees. According to county officials, Picatinny’s Armaments Center contributes roughly $367 million annually in workforce labor to New Jersey, including $163 million in Morris County, where nearly half its employees live.
The Picatinny Enhancement Coalition works to advance the arsenal’s mission by strengthening relationships among the installation, community leaders, businesses and government entities. The group aims to highlight Picatinny’s contributions to national defense and economic growth, while addressing challenges unique to military installations in the Northeast.
