From July 31 to August 06 2020, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) along with Puerto Rico’s Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resilience (COR3) allocated $84 million to 105 recovery projects in Puerto Rico. These funds were used to repair properties and assets damaged by Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Maria. Recipients included private nonprofit organizations, municipalities and agencies of the Government of Puerto Rico.
As a result, disbursements include:
- $35 million for repairs to public buildings and equipment
- $31 million for road and bridge repairs
- $12 million for repairs to parks and recreational facilities
- $4.5 million for emergency protection measures
- $950,000 for debris removal
- $806,000 for administrative expenses of municipalities and government agencies
- Over $209,000 for utility repairs
Recovery Projects in Puerto Rico
One of the recovery projects in Puerto Rico which received assistance was in the municipality of Ciales. Repairs were carried out on the bridge and road in Sector Vega Redonda at Barrio Toro Negro. $2 million was allocated to this project which included the replacement of asphalt and retaining walls.
The municipality of Aguas Buenas received $1.4 million. Roads and rural streets that provide access to rural communities received funding for upgrades. For example, Calle 7 of the Jacanas Sector in the Sumidero neighborhood; and Calle Arachnis in the Rómulo Otero Sector received funding.
The Angel Mercado Coliseum received approximately $556,000 in funds. Over 25,000 residents benefit from the coliseum which hosts sports and community events.
Additionally, disaster mitigation measures received funding. For example, a concrete curb and gutter added valuable reinforcement to a bridge in Ciales. Also, geotextiles and other measures to control water runoff on roads will be installed in Aguas. Similarly, at the Coliseum in Sabana Grande, hurricane wind resistant windows will replace aluminium windows.
To read the full press release, please visit FEMA Approves Over $84 Million in Additional Funds for 105 Recovery Projects.