Ceremony planned for sub base training facility

GROTON, Conn. (AP) — A ribbon-cutting ceremony at the U.S. Submarine Base in Groton is planned for a new, high-tech training facility constructed with funds from the state of Connecticut.

The facility incorporates a submarine bridge simulator that will be used to train officers and crews in submarine navigation.

U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal is scheduled to be among the dignitaries attending Friday's ceremony, which is not open to the public.

The new training facility is one of two projects funded by a $3.2 million investment made in December 2010 by the state of Connecticut. The second project is a culinary training center that includes a full-scale replica galley.

The state has been making investments to increase the value of the sub base since it was nearly closed by the U.S. government in 2005.