The creation of the PR FSRDC is the result of a federal government-wide effort to improve data capacity in the territory and strengthen collaboration between the Census Bureau, the Puerto Rico government and academic institutions like the University of Puerto Rico. The center is also supported by a memorandum of understanding between the Census Bureau and the University of Puerto Rico, signed in Fall 2023.

At the Census Bureau, strengthening data in Puerto Rico is a top priority and I couldn’t have been prouder to stand alongside Nick Orsini, who has worked tirelessly in the months leading up to the event. Nick and his team (which includes several University of Puerto Rico graduates) have been busy building a number of what we hope to be lasting partnerships in Puerto Rico that will lead to improved economic measurement for the island. These partnerships will translate into improved measurement in several areas including research and development, construction spending, retail sales and the measurement of public sector programs.

Deputy Secretary of Commerce Graves called the opening of the data center “a tangible deliverable in support of a broader strategy to strengthen PR’s data infrastructure.”

We believe a strong alliance between federal, local and academic partners is essential for achieving our shared vision of enhancing Puerto Rico's statistical capacity and research capabilities. With the establishment of this center, we are not only leveling the playing field for Puerto Rican researchers but also creating a platform for interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation through access to microdata aligned with relevant research projects.

Lucy Crespo, CEO of the Puerto Rico Science, Technology and Research Trust, emphasized that the center will “bring together scholars from diverse fields, encouraging interdisciplinary research that can solve our challenges comprehensively.” This center will serve as a hub where academics, policymakers and industry leaders converge to explore solutions to the island’s most pressing issues, from public health disparities to economic resilience and measuring the impact of policy interventions for years to come.

As we open the doors to this new facility, let us remember that data are a powerful tool for change. With the PR FSRDC, we are equipping Puerto Rican researchers with the resources and national networks they need to generate insights that can improve lives and shape a brighter future for all. I am excited to witness the transformative research that will emerge from this center and the positive impact it will have on the island’s economy and quality of life.

Thank you to everyone who made this day possible, and for your continued commitment to improved economic measurement and pushing the boundaries of knowledge. With this resource, Puerto Rico can position itself as a leader in data-driven research and innovation.