The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) have awarded more than $1.9 billion in disaster relief funding to support continuing disaster relief and rebuilding projects across Puerto Rico. “These funds represent a historic investment in Puerto Rico’s future. From our electric grid and water systems to our schools and municipal facilities, this support will allow us to rebuild stronger and better protect our communities from future disasters,” announced Governor Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon.
The funds are from these sources:
- $1.292 billion under FEMA’s Public Assistance Program
- $553.6 million in previously obligated funds under the Accelerated Award Strategy
- $81.6 million under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
How will the funds be used?
The funds will be divided among these organizations:
- Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA)
- the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA)
- the Puerto Rico Department of Education
- the Puerto Rico Public Housing Administration
The Hazard Mitigation projects, intended to help strengthen infrastructure in preparation for future disasters, are varied in nature and will help many different communities across the Island. “Each of these projects has a clear objective: to better prepare Puerto Rico for emergencies,” explained Rep. Pablo Jose Hernandez (D-PR). “From protecting hospitals to ensuring access to clean water and energy during critical times, these investments strengthen the resilience of our communities.”
Completing recovery from Hurricane Maria
Hurricane Maria in 2017 caused significant damage in Puerto Rico and funding for recovery was limited. The amounts allocated by Congress were in many cases blocked by red tape and restrictions. Since that time, there have been further hurricanes as well as earthquakes. Many disaster reconstruction projects are still needed.
