FEMA assigns nearly $37 million for disaster repairs

Orocovis will receive some $13 million in three installments for permanent work on roads and bridges damaged by Hurricane Maria.

By The Star Staff

Gov. Jenniffer González Colón announced on Thursday the allocation of $36,942,735.11 in federal funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to repair roads, bridges and buildings affected by natural disasters on the island.

“We continue to secure the necessary resources to strengthen our infrastructure and guarantee the safety of our communities,” González Colón said in a written statement.

The funds, under Section 406 of the Stafford Act, will be distributed among several municipalities. Orocovis will receive $13,010,815.34 in three installments for permanent work on roads and bridges affected by Hurricane Maria.

Yauco will receive $7,168,940.26 to rebuild its emergency management office and municipal police headquarters. Lares will receive $5,450,112.75 to repair roads damaged by Hurricane Fiona. Naranjito will receive $7,750,068.28 for rural roads and its community recreation complex.

Additionally, Sabana Grande will receive $1,090,443, and Adjuntas will receive $1,293,709.86 for roadworks in areas affected by atmospheric events.

Under Section 428 of the Stafford Act, the Puerto Rico Industrial Development Company will receive $2,147,645 for reconstruction work, divided into two allocations.

The governor added that her administration will continue to prioritize securing and implementing federal funds to improve infrastructure and strengthen preparedness for future natural disasters.