FEMA Updates

• File Your Flood Insurance Claim Today
  File Your Flood Insurance Claim Today SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico –The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) urges homeowners and individuals in Puerto Rico who suffered flood damages due to recent flooding events to promptly file claims through their insurance agent or company. “People should start gathering proof of loss for the claim and contact their insurance company. Having a flood insurance policy from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) can be the key to recovering quickly following a flood event, since homeowners and renters receive assistance regardless of a disaster declaration,” said Orlando Olivera, Coordinator of the FEMA Caribbean Area Office in Puerto Rico. FEMA administers the NFIP, which offers building and contents coverage for property owners, renters, and business owners that most property insurance typically does not cover. FEMA advises homeowners and individuals to: Photograph and videorecord the inside and outside of the property, taken before discarding anything, Provide the make, model, and serial number of large household appliances like washers and dryers, water heaters, kitchen appliances, televisions, and computers, Collect samples of building items (e.g., flooring, carpet, wallpaper, and drapes) and provide to the adjuster. If you do not have flood insurance, you can purchase it through a local insurance agent or company. Visit: http://www.floodsmart.gov or call 1-800-427-4661 for additional information. ###FEMA's mission is to help people before, during and after disasters. Follow us on Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico and FEMA, and on Twitter @femaregion2 and @FEMA yuisa.rios Thu, 05/16/2024 - 13:33
• FEMA Promotes the Recovery of Municipalities Through Mapping Tools
  FEMA Promotes the Recovery of Municipalities Through Mapping Tools Guaynabo, PUERTO RICO - As part of Puerto Rico’s resilient recovery from future disasters, strategic planning and reconstruction projects become more important, especially for municipalities with limited resources and social-based nonprofit organizations.To help expand the technical knowledge of municipalities and these organizations, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) held participatory mapping exercises in municipalities around the island to help them identify solutions in their disaster recovery efforts.Many municipalities lack geographic information systems or need high-resolution printed maps to conduct their planning efforts more effectively. Participatory mapping exercises allow municipal staff to better observe the potential hazards and vulnerabilities that exist around their municipalities and visualize their recovery plans. “Part of FEMA’s role is to support municipalities and social-based organizations to strengthen their development and capacity. The mapping exercises are a tool to help them be better prepared and more resilient,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.In the municipality of Ciales, the municipal mapping exercise was essential to identify opportunities to help improve urban and community planning in city revitalization and municipal recovery projects, said planner Aner Cosme Maldonado.The mapping initiative helped reveal that all Ciales communities experienced vulnerability, particularly the Posas, Cialitos, Toro Negro, Pesas and Frontón neighborhoods. Cosme Maldonado explained that solutions vary according to the needs of each community, which has led to the development of reconstruction projects for critical infrastructure, communal areas and basic water services in all affected zones. “This has allowed us to make informed decisions on how to improve the quality of life of the people of Ciales, promoting sustainable growth and resilience to disasters, and fostering economic development in the municipality. We have been able to visualize alongside the mayor the needs and potential solutions of each community, facilitating collaboration between different actors and the effective implementation of revitalization projects,” said Cosme Maldonado.During the mapping exercise, two maps of the municipality or community are used. The maps by neighborhoods and municipal sectors offer a spatial view of the territory, which allows officials to have a holistic vision of their municipality. Then, in a second map, the image is expanded to the urban center, allowing the identification of revitalization projects with economic and social development potential.As a result of the needs identified by municipalities and organizations, FEMA develops follow-up activities, where municipal officials and experts address problems such as storm runoff management; coastal erosion, riverine flooding, erosion and scour in rivers and streams; and the processes that must be carried out to identify, designate and dispose of structures and lots of land that can be declared public nuisances.FEMA’s Community Assistance unit has visited over 50 municipalities since 2018 to offer participatory mapping exercises to municipal officials and members of nonprofit organizations. The team bets on the recovery of municipalities and organizations with a visual methodology that has facilitated the understanding, analysis and dissemination of data for the benefit of the regional planning process in the country. During a participatory mapping exercise, the municipalities of Quebradillas and Lares expressed their need for help in addressing the challenge of the proliferation of disused structures in the urban area. The FEMA group coordinated a meeting between the municipality and the nonprofit organization Centro para la Reconstrucción del Hábitat, in which the municipality’s concerns were discussed and possible solutions were provided.In Barceloneta, the Community Assistance unit helped the municipality develop a virtual tool to promote local tourism. Using platforms such as Google Earth Pro and Google Maps, the Community Assistance group worked with the municipality’s Public Documents Office and the Ignacio Cruz Báez Cultural Center to digitize areas of tourist interest, information that was then shared on the municipality’s website.It is estimated that the Regional Approach for Recovery workshop will be held in October, an event that gathers the predominant needs and hazardous situations in the areas visited. During the event, specific and sustainable recovery alternatives will be offered to the participating municipalities. In the last workshop, issues such as landslides, coastal erosion and mitigation plans were addressed.For his part, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that, “one of the main objectives of reconstruction is to provide resilience to the infrastructure. The implementation of mapping technology will be key to improving the planning process necessary for the responsible development of works that adapt to community needs and are considered future risks to avoid damage that compromises the stability of critical infrastructure.”For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.Municipality of Naranjito, Puerto Rico NARANJITO, Puerto Rico (April 18, 2024) - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) held participatory mapping exercises in municipalities around the island to help them identify solutions in their disaster recovery efforts. These exercises allow municipal staff to better observe the potential hazards and vulnerabilities that exist around their municipalities and visualize their recovery plans. In the photo, staff from FEMA and the Municipality of Naranjito review maps of that town. Photo FEMA/Marynet SánchezMunicipality of Ponce, Puerto Rico PONCE, Puerto Rico (January 18, 2024) - To help expand the technical knowledge of municipalities and these organizations, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) held participatory mapping exercises in municipalities around the island to help them identify solutions in their disaster recovery efforts. Residents of the Municipality of Ponce participated in a mapping exercise in their communities. Photo FEMA frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 05/13/2024 - 13:30
• Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Morris County, New Jersey
  Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Morris County, New Jersey Morris County, N.J. - FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Morris County, New Jersey. Community partners are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period.The updated maps were produced as a result of the Scientific Review Panel (SRP) and in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community partners can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments. The communities receiving updated FIRM map panels as a result of this SRP include Borough of Butler, Township of East Hanover, Borough of Kinnelon, Borough of Lincoln Park, Township of Montville, Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills, Township of Pequannock and Borough of Riverdale.The 90-day appeal period will begin on or around May 10, 2024. Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim. Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information — such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary — they can submit a written comment.The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator. The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. For more information about the flood maps:Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov. Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.Morris County Flood Mapping Milestones2021-2023 — Regular coordination meetings with local officials on mapping progress.9/28/2023 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.12/8/2023 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.On or Around 5/10/2024 — Appeal Period starts.Summer 2025* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 2 Office of External Affairs at (212) 680-3699 or at FEMA-R2-ExternalAffairs@fema.dhs.gov. ###FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.  gina.callaghan Thu, 05/09/2024 - 17:45
• FEMA hosts 2024 Caribbean Readiness Initiative in Puerto Rico
  FEMA hosts 2024 Caribbean Readiness Initiative in Puerto Rico SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Leading Puerto Rico and FEMA officials met in Puerto Rico from April 29 to May 10 to participate of the 2024 Caribbean Readiness Initiative and strengthen preparedness capabilities to ensure that the Island’s emergency response structure is ready to support any type of emergency incident, as the upcoming Hurricane Season approaches.“At the beginning of hurricane seasons, we are always asked if the government is prepared. This type of initiative is part of that government preparedness, both at the municipal, state, and federal level, to be able to manage any emergency that may occur, during hurricane season or at any time. That is why the emphasis is that the community must be prepared. The government will respond, but it is important that everyone is prepared at the individual, family, and community level. We continue to work hand in hand with FEMA to continue helping our island,” said Nino Correa Filomeno, Commissioner of the Puerto Rico Emergency Management Bureau (PREMB).The Caribbean Area Readiness Initiative is an annual series of workshops, trainings, meetings, and sessions that FEMA coordinates with emergency managers from federal, state, municipal agencies, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector to discuss critical topics and build up the knowledge and capabilities needed to improve Puerto Rico readiness and response postures before the start of the Hurricane Season. “During these two weeks, Puerto Rico and key federal personnel were immersed on discussions about the requirements to restore critical infrastructure such as power, water, and other essential services. We also talked about, debris management, resources available, and how Puerto Rico will determine if federal resources are necessary to support the response and recovery of the Island. We are working with Puerto Rico officials to strengthen their readiness, individuals at home and work should also start preparing for emergencies,” said Orlando Olivera, Coordinator of the FEMA Caribbean Area Office in Puerto Rico. “The current weather situation is a reminder that everyone needs to be prepared for all type of emergencies, even when the start of the Hurricane Season is a few weeks away.”The 2024 Readiness Initiative includes supporting the PREMB with seminars throughout the island to ensure that municipal officials are up to date on FEMA programs and policies. During these seminars, FEMA subject matters experts (SMEs) in Individual Assistance, Public Assistance, Hazard Mitigation and FEMA grants share information and guidance with emergency managers and first responders from the 78 municipalities of the island, regarding Debris Management Plans, Response and Recovery Processes, Grant management, Training and more.These collaboration and readiness efforts do not end this week. In the upcoming weeks and months, FEMA will support PREMB with their Readiness Summit and later host the 2024 Governor’s Executive Tabletop Exercise, with all secretaries and heads of agencies, to discuss emergency management priorities, and other key topics to bolster readiness and response postures across the whole community.FEMA encourages anyone who lives in areas that may be affected during an emergency to take time now to prepare at home, school, work, and the places where they spend more time before the upcoming Hurricane Season starts. Visit www.Ready.gov/hurricanes to learn what you can do to get ready, and download the FEMA App, which provides preparedness tips and weather alerts for up to five different locations.###FEMA's mission is to help people before, during and after disasters.Follow us on Facebook Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico and FEMA, and on Twitter @femaregion2 and @FEMA yuisa.rios Thu, 05/09/2024 - 13:18
• Get a Head Start on Preparedness Before Hurricane Season Starts
  Get a Head Start on Preparedness Before Hurricane Season Starts U.S. Virgin Islands –- Now is the time for you and your household to get ready for Atlantic hurricane season. National Hurricane Preparedness Week is a perfect opportunity to assess your risk from storms, update your family's emergency communications plan, replenish your emergency supplies, and review your personal and financial documents.Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, but the best time to prepare is before hurricane season begins. If you wait until a storm is approaching, the odds are that you will be under stress, forget things, or not able to get supplies as they are no longer available. Get your disaster supplies while the shelves at stores are still stocked and get an insurance checkup before winds and rains start to swirl in the Atlantic.FEMA and our partners in the U.S. Virgin Islands will conduct a series of response exercises in the coming months to make sure FEMA is ready to support a response to a storm, at the territory’s request. The best way to help the U.S. Virgin Islands respond to and recover from a disaster is to act today to prepare yourself and your household before a disaster. Each of us can take steps to make sure we are prepared for any disaster.“FEMA continues to work with our partners in the U.S. Virgin Islands to strengthen our collective ability to respond and recover from a disaster,” said Aaron VanDoren, Acting Coordinator for FEMA’s Virgin Islands Caribbean Area Office. “We conduct regular workshops and exercises to ensure we are ready for the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season that starts June 1. We are asking Virgin Islanders to review and update their preparedness plans before the start of hurricane season to make sure they are also ready. It only takes one hurricane or even a tropical storm to cause a disaster,” said VanDoren.“VITEMA is committed to preparing the territory to respond to all disasters, both natural and man-made, with the focus on saving lives and preserving property. Everyone who lives within our territory knows how devastating hurricanes can be, so we always want to remind our community that individual and home preparation is key,” said Daryl Jaschen, Director of the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA). “Together with our FEMA partners, VITEMA, lead territory agencies, the National Guard and volunteers participate year-round in preparation activities, drills, and assessments so that during the months of June to November we are as prepared as we can be to respond in the event of a hurricane headed our way,” said Jaschen. “While we’re familiar with hurricane preparedness during the peak season of August through October, VITEMA strongly urges the community to Be Prepared, Stay Informed, and Be Vigilant throughout the entire season as weather patterns are unpredictable. There are online resources on Ready.gov and ours as well at vitema.vi.gov.”As you prepare, tailor your plans and supplies to your specific daily living needs and responsibilities. Discuss how people in your network can assist each other with communication, care of children, business, pets or specific needs such as operating medical equipment.Make sure everyone in your household knows and understands your hurricane plan. Identify any additional help needed in an emergency if you or anybody in your home is a baby, senior or has a disability, access, or functional requirement. Have several ways to receive alerts. Sign up for Alert VI to receive emergency notifications in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Download the FEMA app on your smartphone and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide. Check the settings on your mobile devices to ensure you can receive Wireless Emergency Alerts, which require no sign-up.Have an emergency charging option(s) for your phone and other devices.Protect your home against storms. Declutter drains and gutters, consider hurricane shutters and leave room in your home to bring in outside furniture during a storm. Inspect and maintain your generator regularly. Consider a maintenance contract that provides at least one service visit per year. Keep fresh fuel in the tank, and periodically run the generator to test performance. Visit flash.org for tips on how to use a generator safely.Identify where you would stay during a hurricane. Follow the instructions from territorial agencies who will provide the latest recommendations based on the threat to your community and appropriate safety measures.Make sure your insurance policies and personal documents are up to date. Make and keep physical copies in a safe dry place and digital copies in a secure password protected digital space. You might need your documents to apply for and receive assistance after a disaster.Have enough supplies for your household, include medication, disinfectant supplies, masks, pet supplies in your go bag or car trunk. After a hurricane, you may not have access to these supplies for days or even weeks.Replenish supplies in your emergency kit and replace expired items as needed. Visit http://www.ready.gov/hurricanes for more information on how to prepare for, stay safe during and return home after a hurricane. Review National Hurricane Preparedness Week’s themes, such as understand forecast information and use caution after storms at http://www.noaa.gov/hurricane-prep-social-media-english and follow vitema.vi.gov for information on local events and community readiness.###FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. gina.callaghan Tue, 05/07/2024 - 13:41
• Millions in FEMA Allocations for Several Roads Around the Island
  Millions in FEMA Allocations for Several Roads Around the Island Guaynabo, PUERTO RICO - The municipalities of Cayey, San Germán, Utuado and Yabucoa received a total of over $23 million in obligations from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to repair roads affected by hurricanes María and Fiona.These funds include funds for mitigation measures that will help prevent similar damage in the event of future disasters.“Roads are a vital part of the country, especially in emergency situations when access to a particular route can prevent accidents and even save lives. The funds that FEMA allocates to repair roads not only help provide safe access to our communities, schools or hospitals, but will also help reduce the wear and tear on our cars by driving on roads in better condition,” said FEMA’s Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.General work on these roads consists of removing and replacing asphalt, curbs and sidewalks, repairing embankments, and replacing gabions. In other cases, guardrails will also be replaced. Mitigation measures will consist mostly of pavement reinforcement, drainage repairs for runoff control, and the incorporation of bioengineering techniques to convert normal gabions into green gabions. These green gabions are created with galvanized baskets filled with filler stone, topsoil and planted with deep-rooted grass. The function of these green retaining walls is to filter water to regulate its flow and reduce soil erosion by creating a permanent protected system, stabilizing embankments and restoring vegetation in the affected area.In the municipality of Utuado, nearly $8 million were allocated to repair a municipal road that provides access to a residential area in the Roblegar sector. Of these funds, over $670,000 were allocated for hazard mitigation measures. According to Utuado’s alternate contact for Federal Programs, Héctor Cruz Cruz, the repairs to this road provide access to about ten families who use it as the only entrance and exit to access Highway 10 in the municipality. “Awarding federal funds is the municipality’s highest priority to address and manage the damage and ensure vehicle traffic. This is of great importance for the benefit of the residents; to provide a safe and efficient roadway for their safety. By having adequate and safe roads they can have basic services, such as being able to go to the hospital and do their shopping,” Cruz Cruz said.Moreover, in Cayey, several roads will be repaired in the Caña 1, 2 and 3 sector, Cana Los Valdíos in the Farallón neighborhood, in Cana Frente and in the Quebrada Arriba sector with an obligation of over $6 million, of which about $588,000 will cover mitigation measures. Municipal Programs Director Sherileen Rivera Muñiz mentioned that these roads provide access to the town and that in both neighborhoods there are small merchants who were affected by the damage and will benefit from the repairs, as they will provide safety for residents and visitors alike. "Public roads are of vital importance for our citizens to be able to move throughout the city, which results in economic and social development. In addition, having the road infrastructure in the best conditions ensures the life and safety of everyone, as well as their access to health and other services in their daily lives," she added.Likewise, in Yabucoa, over $2.5 million were allocated to repair roads that give access to residences in the Calabazas neighborhood. Here, mitigation measures will be addressed with an allocation of over $490,000.According to the Finance director of the municipality of Yabucoa, Pedro Crespo, the project will benefit 800 residents. Crespo explained that the project covers the Santa María neighborhood, the Rincón sector and two roads in the community of Calabazas Arriba. He detailed that the Santa María and the Rincón sector are in the design contracting stage, while in Calabazas Arriba part of the damage was already taken care of. “In case of the Rincón sector, the area suffered greater damage in Hurricane Fiona compared to María. Some damage was temporarily addressed because of the hazardous access,” he added.Another municipality that suffered damage from Hurricane Fiona was San Germán, which was awarded nearly $7 million to repair Los Padillas and Los Sorrentini roads in the Cotui neighborhood and the Mr. Sánchez Road. In this rural area, over $439,500 were allocated for mitigation measures. Meanwhile, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, emphasized that the Working Capital Advance (WCA) program has played a fundamental role in expediting the construction of many of the road works in the municipalities. The COR3 program delivers FEMA funds in advance.“For example, in Utuado, the Working Capital program has advanced some $6,041,833 and Yabucoa has received $5,824,722. This is the same for many other municipalities developing road projects. These road projects are part of 3,000 completed works and another 9,000 underway on public roads, bridges, the electrical system, the potable water and sewage system, sports and recreational facilities, among other public facilities throughout Puerto Rico,” said Laboy Rivera.To date, FEMA has obligated approximately $33.8 billion for nearly 11,000 recovery projects in Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane María. Of these funds, over $2.4 billion are for road repairs. Likewise, about $812 million have been obligated for nearly 2,000 projects in the aftermath of Hurricane Fiona, of which over $466 million are for roads.For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr. frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 05/06/2024 - 12:38
• FEMA Continues to Streamline Recovery in Puerto Rico, Enhances Resilient Outcomes and Equitable Solutions
  FEMA Continues to Streamline Recovery in Puerto Rico, Enhances Resilient Outcomes and Equitable Solutions The Puerto Rico Region 2 Interim Progress Report was published today and highlights recovery on the ground and FEMA’s ongoing efforts to build back better.Washington -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell today announced the agency published its first-ever Puerto Rico Interim Progress Report to highlight progress on the island after hurricanes María and Fiona, and the earthquakes in 2020. FEMA’s efforts to help rebuild are paving the way for an unprecedented recovery and, in coordination with the Government of Puerto Rico, the pace of the recovery has gained momentum in the last several years as new infrastructure, permanent repairs and reconstruction can be seen across the island.“Collectively, we are working on over 11,000 recovery projects from these disasters that will dramatically impact the everyday lives of residents,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “With each site that is rebuilt, we are investing in Puerto Rico’s economy and helping to build the Island’s resilience to severe weather events. This critical work will also help boost the Island’s recovery and response capabilities for future generations—ensuring communities are safer and more secure in this increasingly challenging disaster landscape.” FEMA is maximizing this historic opportunity to ensure the island is built back in a way that is stronger and can lessen the impacts of other natural disasters in the future. By partnering with communities and local leaders to understand their vulnerabilities, FEMA is leading the way to find equitable solutions that help advance equity and climate adaptation and ensure recovery is community-driven. Through funding to implement current building codes across the island and other rebuilding projects to mitigate historic flooding in the Caño Martín Peña community in San Juan, for example, FEMA is ensuring recovery efforts result in resilient outcomes. Residents in this community will benefit from improvements to the sanitary sewer system and stormwater infrastructure in the area, among other significant permanent work.The entire federal family is helping to boost island’s resiliency efforts through innovative practices that will strengthen communities and better serve the island’s residents. Working closely with other federal agencies, recovery partners and the communities, FEMA is focused on ensuring efforts on the ground are community-driven and support the unique needs and challenges of residents. Partnerships with the University of Puerto Rico to assess hurricane damage along the island’s coast and the U.S. Department of Energy to help the island reach 100% renewable energy by 2050, among others. are helping inform the way forward through the lens of climate change and climate adaptability.  “Puerto Rico continues to recover due to our workforce’s commitment to the task of rebuilding a resilient island.  While preserving its historic and environmental heritage, they take great pride in knowing that their efforts contribute to building a strong, beautiful and resilient island for future generations,” said Regional Administrator David Warrington, FEMA Region 2.  “With each project that is rebuilt, the island moves closer to becoming an example of resilience in the Caribbean.”FEMA, together with local communities and whole of government, is committed to Puerto Rico’s longterm recovery and will continue to offer unwavering support as the island and its people build towards a bright and resilient future.  frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 05/01/2024 - 16:54
• FEMA Provides Funding for the William Miranda Botanical Garden in Caguas
  FEMA Provides Funding for the William Miranda Botanical Garden in Caguas The repairs will extend beyond the buildings to help replant trees, plants, and protect the habitat of the garden's wildlifeGuaynabo, PUERTO RICO - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has allocated approximately $4 million to the William Miranda Marín Botanical Garden in Caguas, directed at the recovery, and strengthening of the facility due to damage caused by Hurricane Maria. These funds will support the restoration of infrastructure and provide tools for risk mitigation in this important natural and cultural resource.“This allocation will restore an invaluable natural resource, strengthen the fabric of the community, and protect an important habitat where even pre-Columbian archaeological sites are preserved. Projects like these go beyond minimal repair and reaffirm our commitment to current and future generations,” said José G. Baquero, Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator.The Botanical Garden is located on the grounds of the former San José sugar mill, an important agricultural stronghold founded by the Spanish in the Turabo Valley between the 19th and mid-20th centuries.According to Gil Calderón, executive director of the Botanical Garden, this is the only place in Puerto Rico where evidence of the combination of the three main ethnic groups that make up the Creole (European, African, and Taíno) has been found.” For this reason, the site is divided into four main zones representing each of these ethnicities and one dedicated to the Creole, where one can find flora and fauna representative of these peoples and cultures.Calderón emphasized that they continue focused on their vision for the Botanical Garden: “Our vision is to be a world-class ethnobotanical garden, a leader in tourism, culture, nature, and agritourism attractions in Puerto Rico. To be the best alternative for sustainable tourism in the Caribbean. On the other hand, our mission is to be internationally recognized as a premier center in terms of research, education, and interpretation of natural, cultural resources, and sustainability strategies.”Part of the work already completed with the funds assigned by FEMA includes the repair and replacement of various elements, from lamps and posts to security and communication systems that operate through monitors to provide information to visitors. Likewise, water pipes, lighting systems, and roof panels were replaced.Other repairs will be carried out in the administrative offices, concession stands, the butterfly house, and the Casa Jíbara, the visitor center, and recreational areas. Funds will also be allocated to repair bridges and the artificial lake and for improvements to the security area in the garden.The Botanical Garden offers a variety of educational and cultural activities for the community, such as family day trips, educational tours for pet owners, and gallery nights. In addition, they make their facilities available for municipal events and non-profit entities.Also, they host a variety of vendors that stimulate the local economy, such as food and beverage services. They even have a Reintegration Garden, where funeral services are provided with an ecological focus by reincorporating ashes into nature.Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction, and Resilience (COR3), said, “this important project for the socioeconomic development to the people of Caguas joins other 300 permanent works that range from the design acquisition to construction stage, with investments amounting to $69 million. For the reconstruction of the Caguas Botanical Garden, the municipality has at its disposal the request for the first advance of the Working Capital Advance pilot program, which corresponds to 25% of FEMA’s obligation for the initial phase of this work's development. At COR3, we can reaffirm our commitment to continue assisting the municipal team leading the process of the hundreds of reconstruction projects.”The funds for the Botanical Garden include over $482,000 for risk mitigation measures that will reduce the Garden's vulnerability to future climate events. These measures include securing air conditioners and water tanks, installing surge protectors, and other bioengineering strategies to improve bridge drainage.To date, FEMA has allocated over $32.6 billion for about 11,000 projects that will address the recovery of Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria.For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.   frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 04/25/2024 - 15:51
• FEMA Commits $384 Million to Rebuild Educational Facilities on St. Croix and St. Thomas
  FEMA Commits $384 Million to Rebuild Educational Facilities on St. Croix and St. Thomas ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands – A commitment of $384.8 million to demolish and replace three elementary schools on St. Croix, one on St. Thomas and repair a school lunch warehouse on St. Thomas mark the latest milestones in FEMA’s collaboration with the Territory to rebuild school infrastructure across the U.S. Virgin Islands which were damaged during hurricanes Irma and Maria in September 2017. The prudent replacement of Lew Muckle Elementary School is made possible under the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 which clears a path for the demolition and rebuilding of seven of the 11 buildings located on a 3.94-acre parcel in Sion Farm.Eulalie Rivera Elementary school in Grove Place is also receiving prudent replacement costs to repair damages to school grounds and replace 12 structures including bleachers, athletic field bathroom and classrooms. FEMA has also obligated funds to repair the grounds and replace ten buildings at the Juanita Gardine Elementary School in Estate Richmond. Buildings to be replaced at this school include classrooms, offices, the auditorium, and an auxiliary building. On St. Thomas, FEMA has committed funds to assist in replacing the Leonard Dober Elementary School. This school was built in 1938 and suffered greatly in the 2017 hurricanes. Funds will be used to repair the school grounds and replace three buildings and fencing. Funds have also been obligated to assist in repairing a 7,000 sq ft lunch warehouse on St. Thomas back to pre-disaster design, capacity, and function within the existing footprint.FEMA along with the Government of the U.S. Virgin Islands and its departments, including the V.I. Department of Education, continues to focus on repairing and replacing hurricane-damaged facilities, paving a path for safe and modern school facilities from which to deliver education in an equitable manner for the youngest members of our communities.“I am pleased to approve these latest obligations that help bring the Virgin Islands closer to post-hurricane recovery,” said Kristen A. Hodge, the Director for FEMA’s Recovery Office in the U.S. Virgin Islands. “FEMAs resolve to work with our partners in the USVI to repair and rebuild facilities and infrastructure damaged by Irma and Maria remains a high priority for team members who live here in the territory as well as those in leadership roles at the regional and national levels. Our commitment to help the future leaders of the Virgin Islands by providing them safe facilities in which to receive their education remains strong.”  gina.callaghan Tue, 04/23/2024 - 18:27
• FEMA Employees in Puerto Rico Receive Administrator’s Award
  FEMA Employees in Puerto Rico Receive Administrator’s Award Guaynabo, PUERTO RICO - Two teams from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Puerto Rico Joint Recovery Office (JRO) were honored with the 2023 FEMA Administrator's Award, one of the highest awards given to agency employees across the United States.This year, the Puerto Rico Island Wide Benefit-Cost Analysis (IWBCA) team received an award for its work in Climate Resilience, while the office of External Affairs received the Innovation Award. “Since FEMA established the Joint Recovery Office in response to recent disasters, we have assembled a team of highly skilled professionals capable of providing novel and effective solutions to the challenges we face on a daily basis. These awards exemplify the commitment and exceptional work of this group of employees,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.The IWBCA team implemented a system to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of hazard mitigation measures in Electric Power Authority (PREPA) projects. The system developed by the IWBCA group contributes to Puerto Rico's climate resilience by allowing multiple projects to be evaluated simultaneously through a single analysis, including a cost-effectiveness analysis based on future costs.This system increases the agency's efficiency because it avoids double counting of benefits, the duplication of programs and it strengthens the system's resilience to disasters.Furthermore, the award for Innovation for the office of External Affairs highlighted the communications work performed after the recovery from Hurricane María and the 2020 Earthquakes. Their specialized projects include recovery visits throughout the island, informative videos to share the progress of the communities and an updated webpage that shows not only the progress of the recovery, but also the lessons learned. In addition, the External Affairs team created a historical archive with nearly 200 interviews and testimonials on various phases of the island's recovery process, which will serve as a valuable tool to assist FEMA operations locally and nationally in future disasters.The FEMA Administrator's Award is given to employees who promote efficiency and innovation, abide by the highest standards of moral and ethical conduct, foster pride in public service and excel in their professional field.For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.2023 FEMA Administrator’s Awards Honorees WASHINGTON, DC (April 18, 2024)– The Innovation award for FEMA's External Affairs office in Puerto Rico highlighted the communications work they have done in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria and the 2020 earthquakes. In the photo, two officials from the External Affairs office, Ana Igartúa and Carmen E. Torres. Photo/FEMA frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 04/22/2024 - 14:00
• FEMA Awards Over $711 Million to PRASA for Potable Water Meters
  FEMA Awards Over $711 Million to PRASA for Potable Water Meters Guaynabo, PUERTO RICO - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded over $711 million to replace nearly 1.4 million water meters of the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA), the agency’s infrastructure for measuring potable water consumption throughout the island.The existing mechanical water meters will be replaced by ultrasonic meters with Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), a technology that collects detailed information from the meters for all PRASA’s service areas. “This allocation of funds is a wise investment. It not only protects PRASA’s assets and helps it modernize its infrastructure, but it also protects the federal investment, as mitigation works add resiliency against future events,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.After the devastating effects of Hurricane María on PRASA’s water meter infrastructure, replacing and protecting the entire inventory was necessary to ensure its optimum functionality, operation and maintenance, as part of the potable water distribution system. The meters system replacement project includes nearly $580 million in 406 hazard mitigation funding to replace all meters, to avoid the risks associated with partial infrastructure repair. All new meters will include the AMI infrastructure. The mitigation measure will help protect PRASA’s assets and the federal investment by adding resilience against future similar events. This mitigation funding is the highest to date obligated under Hurricane María.PRASA’s Executive President Doriel I. Pagán Crespo said that “the change from mechanical meters to smart meters is currently the most important and emblematic project for the Authority. The project represents a total investment of $790 million for PRASA and we are currently in the first phase of the pilot project, which will determine the type of smart meters to be used. Once again, we are grateful for the support and willingness of all the FEMA, COR3 and PRASA groups that joined us in this process to achieve this historic project for Puerto Rico.”Replacing mechanical meters with ultrasonic technology provides multiple benefits for PRASA. Ultrasonic meters do not require a filter, are not affected by water quality or wear and tear over the years and provide accurate readings for the life of the equipment, which is estimated to be 20 years. The AMI advanced metering system complements the new meters by enabling remote reading capabilities and providing real-time water flow information, allowing PRASA to anticipate potential breakdowns and dispatch maintenance crews promptly.Meanwhile, the executive director of the Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel Laboy Rivera, said that “at COR3 we support the development of this permanent work that will benefit all PRASA subscribers. To begin this project, COR3 disbursed $74.3 million through the Working Capital Advance (WCA) pilot program. Now that FEMA’s funding allocation has increased, we are at the public corporation’s request to arrange a review and advance 25 percent of the total current funding obligation. I thank FEMA for providing the resources to continue transforming the Island’s critical infrastructure into a resilient one.”To date, FEMA has allocated over $33 billion for nearly 11,000 projects to address Puerto Rico’s recovery from Hurricane María. Of these, PRASA has over $3.6 billion through FEMA’s Accelerated Award Strategy (FAASt) to repair water distribution and treatment facilities across Puerto Rico. For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr. frances.acevedo-pico Fri, 04/12/2024 - 12:41
• More than $108 Million in Mitigation Funds for Hurricane Fiona Projects
  More than $108 Million in Mitigation Funds for Hurricane Fiona Projects San Juan, Puerto Rico — To learn from past experiences and apply those lessons to avoid reoccurring problems, is the main drive for FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Program. To date, FEMA has approved more than $108 million for eligible mitigation projects due to Hurricane Fiona, to reduce disaster risks from future events in several communities of Puerto Rico. “FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Program is a key element of our reconstruction efforts because the projects will result in a stronger and more resilient Puerto Rico in the face of future natural or atmospheric events. These agility with which we have been able to advance such projects after Hurricane Fiona is a testament to the collaborative work between our government and FEMA for the benefit of the American citizens on the Island,” said Pedro R. Pierluisi, Governor of Puerto Rico.FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) programs provide funding for eligible mitigation activities that protect life and property from future disaster damage to build a more resilient nation. The Government of Puerto Rico manages the Hazard Mitigation 406 grant under funding provided for in the Stafford Act, through the Public Assistance Program, if mitigation measures are deemed cost-effective, eligible, and technically feasible. “So far, Mitigation program specialists have identified 1,109 Public Assistance projects that include at least a Hazard Mitigation Proposal (HMP), which represents 95% of all projects. The total estimated cost for these projects is more than $231 million. But more importantly, these represent thousands of opportunities for our communities to protect life and property, and to become more resilient for the next incident,” said Robert Little, FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer for Hurricane Fiona.A great example is the mitigation project for the water filtration plant Antonio Santiago Vázquez better known as Superacueducto in Barrio Bajadero, Arecibo. A $4.9 million project that includes $2.7 million in hazard mitigation measures to address the spillway erosion caused by Hurricane Fiona, will strengthen the plant’s resilience to future disasters. A significant component of the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewage Authority, this filtration plant produces 100 million gallons of water per day (mgd) from which 65 million gallons are distributed to the metropolitan area. This system serves potable water to approximately 600,000 residents in its route from Arecibo to other eight (8) municipalities on the north coast and eastern region of the island. As a result of Fiona, the Río Grande de Arecibo's water level rose to a height of 12 feet, surpassing the spillway's overflow level, which is situated on the north side of the regulating lake and supplies the plant's pumps. To address this situation, sheet piling will be installed on the shore of the regulating lake dam and restore it to its original condition. Furthermore, the project aims to protect this critical essential service and took into consideration the balance between emergency safety and natural resources. It raised environmental concerns for which FEMA provided recommendations on how to manage and safeguard the habitat of two endangered Puerto Rico endemic species of this area: the Atlantea tulita (known as the Harlequin Butterfly or Quebradillana) and the Epicrates inornatus (known as the Puerto Rican Boa). The recovery process from Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico remains consistent with 1,773 projects approved, totaling over $737 million in FEMA Public Assistance (PA) program funds to address emergency and permanent projects for damaged infrastructure in the Island. These obligated funds, along with the $649 million in Individual Assistance that FEMA provided to survivors, totals $1.3 billion which has supported recovery efforts in Puerto Rico, since Hurricane Fiona affected it almost 19 months ago.To learn more about Puerto Rico’s recovery from Hurricane Fiona, please visit:  www.fema.gov/disaster/4671 and for the Hazard Mitigation Program, visit: Hazard Mitigation Assistance Grants | FEMA.gov# # #FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters.For more information on Puerto Rico’s recovery from Hurricane Fiona, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4671. Follow us on our Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico page, Twitter @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol.For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on Twitter at @Ready.gov, on Instagram @Ready.gov or on the Ready Facebook page. FEMA provides free services to help people communicate with us and understand FEMA programs. If you need a Puerto Rico Sign Language (PRSL) interpreter, American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter or a spoken language interpreter to communicate with FEMA, please send an email to FEMA-PRaccesible@fema.dhs.gov to schedule a personal appointment. If you need help accessing a FEMA program or service, call FEMA at 1-833-285-7448 [Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish, 3 for the language line] or send an email to FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov.   yuisa.rios Mon, 04/08/2024 - 12:17
• FEMA Supports the Restoration of Puerto Rico’s Historic Reserves
  FEMA Supports the Restoration of Puerto Rico’s Historic Reserves The agency awarded over $1 million to the Conservation Trust of Puerto RicoGuaynabo, Puerto Rico – The Conservation Trust of Puerto Rico, dedicated to ensuring the conservation of ecologically valuable land on the island, received an obligation of over $1 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to repair its headquarters and other facilities affected by Hurricane María, including the San Cristóbal Canyon, Hacienda Buena Vista and the Ramón Power y Giralt House. “The Trust’s work to preserve these lands is an integral part of Puerto Rico’s recovery and it is a mission that transcends future generations. Our national heritage is irreplaceable and we at FEMA are very pleased to be able to collaborate with the work the Trust is doing for the well-being of our island,” said FEMA Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.With funds from this obligation, repairs were made to the former Lions Club located in the San Cristóbal Canyon. The structure serves as a work center for the staff that manages the reserve, to store equipment and also to hold community activities. Some of the repairs included the roof, electricity, security doors, walls and windows, among others. Another obligation of nearly $4,500 was allocated to repair the power cables, pipes and shut-off valves for the irrigation system, and for the electrical switch for the pumping system in the nurseries and Casa Los Llanos.Para La Naturaleza’s environmental interpreter, Roberto J. Celpa Rondón, mentioned that the nurseries are used for the reproduction of endangered species and include some such as the Cornutia obovata, an endemic plant of Puerto Rico, and others such as palo de ramón and palo de jazmín.“The protection that the nature reserve is giving to the bodies of water that run inside the canyon is also important. We have three bodies of water nearby, the Barranquitas River or Piñona River and the Aibonito River that join the Usabón River, which in turn is a tributary of the La Plata River, so we are protecting a very important watershed that provides water to many people in the island’s metropolitan area,” he added.Another protected area of high ecological value is Hacienda Buena Vista in Ponce, an important coffee and fruit plantation built in 1845. It is a historic space with structures that are more than a century old and a hydraulic turbine that is unique in the world and is still operational. At the Hacienda, nearly $248,000 will be used to repair the old garage, which dates back to the 1900s and is currently used as a store. An additional $64,000 allowed the Trust to complete other repairs to the store, as well as to the main house, the warehouse, the offices and the former slave quarters and coffee dryer, where wood and masonry walls, corrugated metal and wood ceilings and interior walls, among others, were repaired.The superintendent of the Trust’s Southern Region, Mariana Rivera Figueroa, explained that from the Hacienda’s visitor center they manage about 23 protected natural areas from Guayama to Cabo Rojo. “Here, we also work on many projects that have to do with environmental education, historical education and reforestation. We also have a native tree nursery, an agroecological garden, a medicinal garden, an agroforestry cacao and a coffee field,” she added.Likewise, the Ramón Power y Giralt House in Old San Juan, headquarters of the Trust, also received funds to repair the historic structure. This house is an example of 18th and 19th century Spanish colonial architecture and was the home of Ramón Power y Giralt, the first Puerto Rican deputy in the Cádiz Courts in Spain. The two-story building, with masonry walls and brick panels over ausubo beams and windowsills, was acquired by the Trust in 1989 and was restored in accordance with the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture’s historic rehabilitation guidelines for Old San Juan. Part of the repairs included replacing the wood doors and balconies, cleaning humidity stains and replacing the waterproofing treatment on the roof.For the Trust, the ability to restore historic sites and rehabilitate our natural areas allows them to advance their conservation mission. “Through Para La Naturaleza, founded 54 years ago, we integrate society in the conservation of natural ecosystems and the restoration of historic sites in Puerto Rico through educational programs, volunteerism, citizen science, agroecology, reforestation and community partnerships,” they said in an official statement. The entity has about 65,000 annual participations, including tours for communities and schools, volunteering initiatives and crowdsourcing.On the other hand, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that “the reconstruction of these spaces with a high historical value gives resilience to these structures reducing the possibility of greater damage in the event of another natural disaster. At COR3 we support the execution of these permanent works that have a positive impact on the socioeconomic development of the areas where they are located.”To date, FEMA has obligated over $32.5 billion for over 10,900 recovery projects in Puerto Rico following the passage of Hurricane María. Of these funds, over $7.3 million are earmarked for repairing different facilities of The Conservation Trust of Puerto Rico.For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.SAN CRISTÓBAL CANYON, BARRANQUITAS, PUERTO RICO BARRANQUITAS, Puerto Rico (June 6, 2023)– The Conservation Trust of Puerto Rico, dedicated to ensuring the conservation of ecologically valuable land on the island, received an obligation of over $1 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to repair its headquarters and other facilities affected by Hurricane María, including the San Cristóbal Canyon in Barranquitas. Photo FEMA/Eduardo MartínezHACIENDA BUENA VISTA, PONCE, PUERTO RICO PONCE, Puerto Rico (March 8, 2024) – FEMA allocated nearly $248,000 to the Conservation Trust of Puerto Rico to repair buildings at Hacienda Buena Vista, including the old garage, which dates back to the 1900s and is currently used as a store. An additional $64,000 allowed the Trust to complete other repairs to the store, as well as to the main house, the warehouse, the offices and the former slave quarters and coffee dryer, where wood and masonry walls, corrugated metal and wood ceilings and interior walls, among others, were repaired. Photo FEMA/Eliezer Hernández frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 04/04/2024 - 15:48
• FEMA Celebrates 45th Anniversary with Commitment to Community and Service
  FEMA Celebrates 45th Anniversary with Commitment to Community and Service ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands -- FEMA is proud to announce its 45th anniversary, marking over four decades of dedicated service to communities across the United States, including the U.S. Virgin Islands.Since its inception, April 1, 1979, FEMA has been steadfast in its mission to support and assist communities in times of need. As part of this commitment, FEMA staff are not only employees but also residents of the communities they serve. Their deep-rooted connection to the community drives their passion and dedication to providing assistance and support to their fellow community members."In celebrating our 45th anniversary, we reflect on the journey that has brought us here and reaffirm our commitment to serving the people of the U.S. Virgin Islands," said Kristen Hodge, Director, FEMA USVI Recovery Office. "Our members live and breathe the spirit of service, and we are honored to be part of these communities."To mark this milestone, FEMA is highlighting some of its significant accomplishments in the Virgin Islands since hurricanes Irma and Maria. These include:Infrastructure Hardening: In collaborating with territorial organizations, FEMA has worked tirelessly with its partners in the territory on hurricane recovery projects that will repair and rebuild critical infrastructure, ensuring the resilience of the U.S. Virgin Islands against future disasters. Several hazard mitigation projects that FEMA has funded include the development of microgrids on each island, stormwater management and roadway projects, as well as restoration of the Walter I.M. Hodge Pavilion.The goal of the microgrids set to power St. Thomas and St. Croix are to provide a reliable and resilient energy solution for both islands. Engineered to seamlessly integrate with the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority grid, they'll feature solar photovoltaic plants and battery energy storage systems (BESS) in St. Croix, alongside a proposed wind farm in St. Thomas. These grids are pivotal in ushering in renewable energy initiatives, fortifying the existing electricity infrastructure for a sustainable, greener future. Additionally, the St. John microgrid initiative will introduce a dependable solar-powered backup, enhancing resilience where it was previously lacking.Several road improvement projects in the territory have received funding to make them better at handling stormwater. The goal is to stop flooding on the roads and nearby land. This will make the roads stronger and last longer, reducing damage from bad weather and regular wear and tear. Some ways they'll do this include adding swales (channels for water), making culverts bigger to avoid flooding, and adding structures to prevent hills from collapsing. The Walter I.M. Hodge Pavilion, managed by the Virgin Islands Housing Authority, is being reconstructed. New wind retrofitted roofs, windows, and doors will mitigate damage from future storms. This project aims to ensure these buildings can withstand winds up to 168 miles per hour, as needed in the U.S. Virgin Islands.Support for Individuals and Businesses: Through various assistance programs, FEMA has provided financial aid and support to individuals and businesses, aiding in their recovery and rebuilding efforts. FEMA’s Public Assistance team secured funding for several electrical distribution hardening projects throughout the territory as well as projects to replace the above ground electrical systems with underground transmission and distribution in the same areas. These repairs will make the electrical transmission and distribution system more resilient, less susceptible to damage from natural disasters, and allow power to be restored at a significantly faster rate.Investment in Resilience: FEMA’s Interagency Recovery Coordination, in partnership with federal agencies, supports the U.S. Virgin Islands’ recovery efforts through collaborations like the Island Food Systems Summit held from February 19 to 21. The summit aimed to enhance the local food system by gathering expertise, sharing strategies, and fostering partnerships among government agencies, nonprofits, farmers, and businesses. The event focused on the theme "Relationships, Resources, and Resilience," emphasizing the importance of stakeholder relationships, natural resource management, and community resilience.Continuous Support: Since 2019, FEMA’s Virgin Islands Caribbean Area Office, has been dedicated to strengthening the USVI's preparedness for emergencies and disasters. The VI CAO continues to focus on working with the V.I. Territorial Emergency Management Agency to build the territory’s capacity to strengthen its preparedness, response and initial recovery resources to bolster resilience.The VI CAO has supported the territory during various crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, managing sargassum at St. Croix’s desalination plant in 2022, and addressing lead and copper concerns in St. Croix’s water system in 2023.One notable achievement is the USVI Readiness Initiative, which involves federal and territorial agencies working together to improve disaster preparedness and response. Teamwork between multiple federal and territorial agencies has strengthened planning for response focus areas such as temporary emergency power and commodity distribution to ensure the territory’s critical services stabilize faster after disasters. The 2024 Readiness Initiative’s paramount event – the Capstone -- will feature workshops and exercises focused on preparedness, disaster response and initial recovery in May, in advance of hurricane season.As FEMA celebrates 45 years of service, it reaffirms its commitment to its mission of supporting communities as well as ensuring their safety and well-being. The agency looks forward to continuing its partnership with the U.S. Virgin Islands and standing together during crises.###FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. gina.callaghan Mon, 04/01/2024 - 14:52
• FEMA Awards Over $74.4 Million to PREPA for Repairs to the Aguirre Transmission Center
  FEMA Awards Over $74.4 Million to PREPA for Repairs to the Aguirre Transmission Center Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded over $74.4 million to the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA) to undertake the second phase of repairs at the Aguirre Transmission Center in Salinas. Part of the work in this second phase includes building high-voltage electrical interconnectivity zones to connect renewable energy projects. “This obligation is an important step for renewing Puerto Rico's electric grid into a robust, reliable and resilient system. The Aguirre Transmission Center is one of the country’s main power generation centers and these funds will help modernize it and increase its energy production,” said FEMA’s Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.The second phase of repairs also includes upgrades to the power protection, control and monitoring systems, the acquisition of one emergency generator and the replacement of several transformers. In 2022, FEMA allocated over $35 million to start the first phase of repairs to increase the capacity and operational stability of the complex. The Aguirre Transmission Center is one of the four most important plants in Puerto Rico’s power generation network, with a maximum generating capacity of 1,500 megawatts.The funds to the Aguirre Power Plant are part of nearly $9.5 billion under FEMA’s Accelerated Award Strategy, known as FAASt, approved in September 2020 to repair the island's electric power generation, transmission and distribution system.The executive director of the Central Office of Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that “as part of the transformation of the electrical grid, this obligation for the execution of the second phase of the work at the Aguirre Power Plant in Salinas will integrate new energy technologies, which supports the transition necessary to comply with Act 17-2019 created by the Government of Puerto Rico, with the purpose of increasing the Renewable Energy Portfolio to reach 100% by 2050.”To date, the federal agency has awarded $9.9 billion to PREPA for permanent projects to repair damage caused by Hurricane María; and nearly $8.8 million for permanent projects that will address the reconstruction following the 2020 Earthquakes.For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.Aguirre Transmission Center, Salinas, PR SALINAS, Puerto Rico (March 3, 2023) – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded over $74.4 million to the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA) to undertake the second phase of repairs at the Aguirre Transmission Center in Salinas. Part of the work in this second phase includes building high-voltage electrical interconnectivity zones to connect renewable energy projects. Photo FEMA frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 03/25/2024 - 14:58
• FEMA Funds Promote the Study of Puerto Rico’s Ecosystem
  FEMA Funds Promote the Study of Puerto Rico’s Ecosystem The agency awarded funds to the Jobos Bay Natural Reserve and the Cambalache Species RefugeGuaynabo, Puerto Rico – The Department of Natural and Environmental Resources’ (DNER) Jobos Bay, located between the municipalities of Salinas and Guayama, is much more than a nature reserve where flora and fauna coexist in harmony. It is the only national estuarine research reserve in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, and one of only 30 in the United States and its territories, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The strong winds of Hurricane María destabilized the ecological balance of the reserve, but time and nature's own regenerative power helped it resurge. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has complemented this effort by allocating over $462,000 to the DNER to repair structures and technology that support the mission of this research center. “Aside from being an eco-tourism destination, Jobos Bay contributes to the management and conservation of the nation's network of estuarine reserves. This funding allocation helps the reserve improve its facilities and acquire the necessary equipment to continue its scientific and educational mission,” said FEMA Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.The reserve has a dual function: it is a scientific research laboratory and a wildlife monitoring center. Aitza E. Pabón Valentín, director and manager of the Jobos Bay National Reserve and Estuarine Research, said that they study changes in vegetation, the behavior of endemic species and phenomena related to climate change.“We have a station that we call the sentinel. From there, we measure ground pressure, water inflow and changes in vegetation every month. The theory is — and one can already see it — that the habitats are migrating inland. That is, the mangrove forest is moving inland as the sea level rises. We are quantifying that effect of climate change,” said Pabón Valentín.The facilities also have an educational function aimed at the conservation of the reserve's marine and terrestrial ecosystems, which is undertaken in collaboration with local and federal agencies, schools, universities and community groups.“We have several ongoing scientific investigations. One student is working on her doctoral work with the populations of Cassiopeas, which are marine jellyfish. We have work that the Natural Resources Conservation Service of the Department of Agriculture is doing on the seafloor census and others related to sea weeds, and we are monitoring migratory and local birds,” the director said. Meanwhile, the training coordinator of the DNER’s coastal program and environmental scientist Jimmy Peña added that, in addition to studying phenomena related to climate change, the reserve also has a function aimed at rehabilitating the estuary.“Although people and tourism are welcome, (the reserve) is based on research. We develop mangrove growth scientifically, that's why we have the different stages of mangrove development,” Peña said. “The juvenile mangroves are being used to restore the coast of Mata la Gata Island, but also to restore other places.” To date they have planted more than 4,000 juvenile mangrove trees.      The reserve’s Visitors Center is located in what was once the Aguirre Sugar Plantation Clubhouse and currently serves as a laboratory where field samples obtained from the bay are analyzed. Meanwhile, the cultural activities center was built in the old Aguirre train station. FEMA’s allocation contemplates repairing the walls and roofs of both buildings, as well as the observation towers, wooden gazebos and a boardwalk. The Wi-Fi antennas, which are vital for the collection and dissemination of investigative data, will also be repaired.Moreover, the agency also allocated over $509,000 to repair the Cambalache Species Refuge, a detention center located in Arecibo that houses exotic animals brought illegally to Puerto Rico. The shelter currently houses different types of mammals, reptiles — including alligators, crocodiles and snakes — and several species of birds.   Repairs scheduled for the Species Refuge include work on the main office, repair of electrical infrastructure, and replacement of fixtures and the water cistern. Several species cages will also be repaired and replaced, including the reptile terrarium and the bird and mammal cages. The two DNER projects have hazard mitigation funds: over $127,000 for the Jobos Bay Estuarine Research Center and nearly $47,000 for the Cambalache Species Refuge, to address water infiltration problems in the roofs, doors and windows, and to add additional protection to the electrical systems. Meanwhile, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that “DNER’s permanent works are important and very particular because they are aimed at restoring facilities that seek to preserve natural resources for scientific purposes or for the use and enjoyment of the people, as is the case of these projects to which FEMA allocated funds. Currently, the DNER has 155 projects in design acquisition process, design or construction bidding, with investments totaling $90.8 million. We will continue to support the DNER throughout the required process for these projects in Salinas and Guayama to begin development soon.”To date, FEMA has allocated over $32.4 billion for more than 10,900 projects that will address damages following Hurricane María. Of these, the DNER has nearly $152 million from the agency for permanent works to repair its infrastructure.For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, Salinas, PR SALINAS, Puerto Rico (March 1, 2024) – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) allocated over $462,000 to the PR Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DNER) to repair structures and technology that support the mission of the Jobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Photo FEMA/Eliezer HernándezJobos Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, Salinas, PR SALINAS, Puerto Rico (March 1, 2024) – The Jobos Bay is the only national estuarine research reserve in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, and one of only 30 in the United States and its territories, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The facilities also have an educational function aimed at the conservation of the reserve's marine and terrestrial ecosystems, which is undertaken in collaboration with local and federal agencies, schools, universities and community groups. Photo FEMA/Eliezer Hernández frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 03/18/2024 - 12:22
• FEMA Funds to Uphold the Legacy of Marketplaces
  FEMA Funds to Uphold the Legacy of Marketplaces Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – Four marketplaces located in Las Piedras, San Juan and Vega Baja will have their facilities repaired with nearly $2 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The allocations seek to foster and promote these plazas, which are of great significance to the municipalities and their communities. In general, the plazas will undergo repairs to lighting, security and roof membranes, in addition to replacing doors, air conditioners, signs and windows.“The personal service and the variety of products and services, in addition to the sense of tradition and familiarity of the people, are part of what makes Puerto Rico's marketplaces unique. For FEMA it is important to be part of their revitalization, as they promote the economy of the municipalities through small merchants and are meeting points for locals and tourists,” said FEMA’s Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator in Puerto Rico José G. Baquero.One of the projects in this allocation is the Vega Baja Héctor A. Joy Sandín Marketplace, with over $876,400 to repair three of its facilities: the Market Plaza, an annex and the Public Car Terminal. Hazard mitigation measures such as the replacement of roof panels with water-resistant ones are considered with an allocation of over $39,000.The repairs will help root vegetable vendors like Osvaldo Camacho Alicea receive their customers in a safer and more comfortable area. Camacho Alicea spent part of his childhood working in the former Marketplace with his father, Marcelo Camacho Martínez, who had a root vegetable stand. “In 1967 my dad brought me to work with him and I stayed until 1975. I had no vacations or holidays; I had to be with him working. I didn't like the work, but he said to me, 'If you don't study, I'm going to give you a college that you won't have to pay for.' I graduated from high school, went to Chicago and in 1983 I returned to Puerto Rico, to this day,” he recalled.For him, marketplaces are important and, although he confessed that the number of customers has decreased over the years, he thinks that this tradition should continue. In fact, he still keeps in his stall the bus horn which he used to sell root vegetables around the neighborhoods.Meanwhile, the executive assistant in charge of the Office of Protocol, Calendar and Communications for the municipality of Vega Baja, Luis R. Pérez Santos, pointed out that people still visit the marketplace, because it has everything they could need. “The people’s hospitality and the type of business here, which no longer exist in the urban centers, such as greengrocers, lottery salespeople, the hair salon, the flower shop; all that and obviously a cafeteria that is legendary. You will find the best stuffed potatoes there”, he indicated.In the municipality of San Juan, two plazas received a total of over $718,500 for repairs. These are the Río Piedras Rafael Hernández Marketplace, built in 1956, which has been awarded $672,000; and the Santurce Marketplace, built in 1912, with over $46,000. According to the executive officer in charge of the Santurce Marketplace, Miguel Ángel Orta Vélez, the marketplace tradition is still alive. In his opinion, the plaza has evolved and has become a place recognized worldwide for its artistic and cultural events, and receives nearly 400,000 visitors each year. “The Plaza has survived despite the proliferation of other spaces that sell food. The tradition of people coming to the square to eat prepared foods and search for their root vegetables, fruits and vegetables, it remains here,” he said. He also emphasized that for the merchants this is their way of life. “Some of them have been here for 30 or 40 years and many of them are the children of those who were originally here in the plaza,” he added. One of these second-generation merchants is Jorge Luis Otero. For nearly 60 years, his father was in charge of the stall that he now manages. For Otero, it’s not only about the importance of cultural heritage, but also about offering good prices and a pleasant experience to the visitor, “so that they are satisfied and come back.”Perhaps a good example of this is Arsenio Quiles from Lares, who has lived in Santurce since 1967 and has found his place in this plaza. Don Arsenio is 95 years old and spends his days here, happy and surrounded by “good people and good neighbors.” “This is my paradise. I am here every day. There is joy, events, you meet people and the community is very nice. You can find everything here,” he said. Quiles also said that he serves people when they arrive, sweeps if he has to sweep and even takes pictures with tourists from all over the world who want to take a souvenir of their visit to the iconic square.On the other hand, an allocation of nearly $264,000 went to the Juan Velázquez Marketplace in Las Piedras to repair its building, built in 1996. The plaza has the 52nd flag by artist Héctor Collazo Hernández and receives about 400 people a month. The Culture and Tourism director of Las Piedras, Elvin Agosto Rodríguez, said that although sales have decreased in certain areas, "the plaza remains alive due to the wide range of artisan workshops offered and the variety of events that take place.”Businesswoman Mayrabel Tolentino Serrano, owner of a beauty salon, agrees that activity has decreased, but understands that the repairs in the plaza will benefit merchants and customers, since it will be possible to fix existing problems that affect the structure and, therefore, services.For his part, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Rivera Laboy, said that “marketplaces represent an important opportunity for the development of local farmers and merchants. The reconstruction work and the implementation of mitigation measures will make these buildings, some of them historic, more resilient to future natural disasters. At COR3, we will continue to assist in the necessary steps to ensure that these works, which are subsidized by FEMA funds, are carried out in an expeditious and compliant manner.”To date, FEMA has obligated over $32 billion for more than 10,900 recovery projects in Puerto Rico following Hurricane María.For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.Héctor A. Joy Sandín Marketplace, Vega Baja PR Vega Baja, Puerto Rico (February 29, 2024) – FEMA obligated over $876,400 to the Municipality of Vega Baja to repair three facilities of the Héctor A. Joy Sandín Marketplace: the Market Plaza, an annex and the Public Car Terminal. Hazard mitigation measures such as the replacement of roof panels with water-resistant ones are considered with an allocation of over $39,000. Photo FEMA/Karixia OrtizSanturce Marketplace, San Juan, PR San Juan, Puerto Rico (March 4, 2024) – FEMA allocated over $46,000 to repair the Santurce Marketplace, built in 1912. Photo FEMA/Eliezer Hernández  frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 03/11/2024 - 12:00
• Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Yates County, New York
  Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Yates County, New York NEW YORK - FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Yates County, New York. Community partners are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period. The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community partners can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments. The 90-day appeal period will begin March 6, 2024 for the Town of Starkey and March 7, 2024 for all other communities. Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim. Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information—such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary—they can submit a written comment.The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator. The preliminary maps and changes from the current maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. For more information about the flood maps:Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov. Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.Yates County, NY Flood Mapping MilestonesFebruary 10, 2022 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.May 1, 2023 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.June 21, 2023 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.August 16, 2023 — Open House Meeting with public to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map.March 7, 2024 (Town of Starkey – March 6, 2024) — Appeal Period starts.Mid/late 2025* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 2 Office of External Affairs at (347) 416-3792 or at FEMA-R2-ExternalAffairs@fema.dhs.gov.###FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. kate.macedo Wed, 03/06/2024 - 22:04
• $14 Million In FEMA Funds for Hospitals of the Mennonite Health System
  $14 Million In FEMA Funds for Hospitals of the Mennonite Health System Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded nearly $14 million to the Mennonite General Hospital for repairs to its facilities in Aguas Buenas, Cayey, Cidra and Guayama. This figure is part of over $20 million for permanent projects that the agency has obligated to this nonprofit organization to address damage following Hurricane María.“Hospitals are part of the essential services needed by communities before, during and after a disaster. The repairs will restore the infrastructure to its pre-hurricane condition, while addressing humidity problems and implementing mitigation measures to strengthen these buildings,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.The Mennonite Health System was founded in 1944 in Aibonito and today has nearly 700 physicians and about 70 volunteers who provide services to the organization's various programs throughout its chain of hospitals in Puerto Rico. The allocations for these four Mennonite hospitals seek to remediate mold problems, replace acoustic ceilings, grids and doors, and insulate ductwork and pipes, among other work. Over $1 million of these funds were allocated primarily to mitigate high winds damages and rain infiltration in the buildings.Mennonite Health System Executive Director Ricardo Hernández emphasized that as a health system that provides first response services in emergency situations and disaster events, "it is a priority to ensure that our caring environment is adequate, safe and effective to meet the health needs that may arise. The continuity of services is crucial, mainly in the mountain area where our facilities are located, and where we receive over 300,000 visits a year”.Hernández also emphasized that this allocation of funds is important "so that our facilities always remain in compliance with the regulations and quality standards that characterize us”.Meanwhile, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, highlighted one of the projects being developed at Centro Médico in Cayey, for the acquisition and installation of a combined heat and power system that would provide backup electricity, as well as a facility to treat and store water. “At COR3, we are working closely with hospital institutions to provide them with systems that increase their resilience in the event of any emergency or disaster. Recently, we also announced other projects for the development of power generation and water storage systems. In this way, we are providing redundancy of services for patients, the sector that needs our immediate attention in the event of a disaster,” said Laboy Rivera.To date, FEMA has obligated over $32 billion for over 10,900 Hurricane María recovery projects. Of these funds, over $7.4 billion is earmarked for repairing public buildings and equipment that provide a variety of services across the island.For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.Mennonite General Hospital, Cayey, Puerto Rico CAYEY, Puerto Rico (March 1st, 2024) – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded nearly $14 million to the Mennonite General Hospital for repairs to its facilities in Aguas Buenas, Cayey, Cidra and Guayama. One of the projects being developed at Centro Médico in Cayey is for the acquisition and installation of a combined heat and power system that would provide backup electricity, as well as a facility to treat and store water. Photo Fema / Eliezer Hernández frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 03/04/2024 - 11:36
• Costa Sur Receives Approval for $55 Million in Additional Funds from FEMA
  Costa Sur Receives Approval for $55 Million in Additional Funds from FEMA Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – Nearly $55.3 million in federal funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) were allocated for the second construction phase at the Costa Sur Power Plant in Guayanilla. This allocation to the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA) is part of the total obligation of about $9.5 billion for the restoration of the island's power grid through the agency's Accelerated Award Strategy (FAASt).“All work to strengthen Puerto Rico's power grid is a priority for FEMA. We recognize the importance of having the grid working in optimal and robust condition, as it has an overall impact on the island, from health, education and the economy, to the homes of every citizen. Having a solid grid will help us face other emergencies and future disasters,” said FEMA Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.The FAASt strategy allows critical infrastructure projects with similar damage to be grouped together to expedite Hurricane María recovery efforts. It reduces the time and resources that would be required to inspect thousands of damaged facilities.The focus of this allocation for the Costa Sur thermoelectric generation plant — that produces energy for transmission and distribution plants around the island — is to repair the facility. The most outstanding works are the replacement of existing infrastructure and transmission circuit breakers, the construction of new control facilities to include protection, control and metering equipment, and the replacement of existing transformers. In addition, an emergency transformer and a spare transformer will be purchased.   To date, Costa Sur has over $125 million in FEMA funds under Hurricane María FAASt obligations; in addition to over $15 million for damage following the 2020 Earthquakes.One of the previous allocations to this thermoelectric plant was nearly $21 million to replace equipment at the substation, such as oil circuit breakers and two gas circuit breakers with 13 new gas circuit breakers; and to install new disconnecting switches, among others.These obligations, as well as other initiatives in which FEMA provides financial and technical assistance — such as the Puerto Rico Grid Resilience and Transitions to 100% Renewable Energy Study (PR100) — are part of the agency’s collaboration with the Government of Puerto Rico to achieve the goal of transitioning to renewable energy by 2050.To date, FEMA has obligated over $32 billion for more than 10,900 Hurricane María recovery projects and nearly $916 million for nearly 800 projects to address damage from the 2020 Earthquakes.For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.Costa Sur Thermoelectric Generation Plant, Guayanilla, Puerto Rico Guayanilla, Puerto Rico (September 9, 2021) – FEMA allocated nearly $55.3 million for the second reconstruction phase at the Costa Sur Power Plant in Guayanilla. This allocation to the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA) is part of the total obligation by FEMA of about $9.5 billion for the restoration of the island's power grid. Photo FEMA/Eliezer Hernández frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 02/22/2024 - 18:25
• Alternate or Improved Projects: FEMA Options for Community Needs
  Alternate or Improved Projects: FEMA Options for Community Needs  Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – Communities evolve and their needs change. Faced with this reality, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides the options of alternate or improved projects to meet their new realities. Two projects in the municipalities of Orocovis and Yabucoa demonstrate these alternatives with a total obligation of nearly $5.2 million. Under FEMA's Public Assistance program, an alternate project is one where the applicant decides not to restore the pre-disaster function of the damaged facility and chooses to change it, as long as it is a permanent work that benefits the same community. Meanwhile, an improved project is one that restores the pre-disaster function and add improvements or changes to its pre-disaster design.“These projects show that our agency is focused and committed to achieving the most practical solutions for the particular situations of the municipalities and their communities. Likewise, we emphasize the importance that these works comply with established requirements and standards to withstand future disasters”, said FEMA’s Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.In the municipality of Orocovis, an alternate project was approved with an obligation of nearly $953,200 to demolish a former Head Start center to turn it into a batting cage. This project is located at the Arnaldo Hernández Sports Complex, named after a beloved athlete from the Saltos neighborhood.The new concept will benefit nearly 150 families and aims to continue promoting different types of sports, especially among the youth. “The complex has several areas, and it will now have a batting field, an alternative to improve the batting skills of our children and youths,” said the municipality’s Planning director, Marlon Meléndez Ayala. This project, which is in the design and auction planning stage, includes demolishing the center, clearing vegetation, preparing the site and applying asphalt. Additional work also entails the installation of a multi-lane batting cage netting system and automatic batting machines, air conditioners, lighting fixtures and metal fencing. An award of nearly $19,200 was allocated for mitigation measures such as anchoring systems for air conditioning units.The Saltos neighborhood recreational leader, Miguel A. Pérez Rivera, mentioned that this facility is used by softball, baseball and soccer teams. “It is widely used by the community and people use it for exercise and health wellness. For example, Alexander Torres, the first Puerto Rican to win the San Blas half marathon, trains at this facility every morning,” he said.Moreover, in the municipality of Yabucoa, FEMA awarded over $4.2 million for the improved project of the Diagnostic and Treatment Center (CDT, in Spanish) located in 901 Road at Pueblo neighborhood. The center's administrator, Mariángela Alvarado Soto, said that the improvements and compliance with current building codes ensure quality, excellence and safety for patients, staff and medical faculty. She also noted that having a facility in optimal conditions generates an efficient, productive work environment and better service. “In addition, it provides the opportunity that, should an atmospheric or other event arise, it can serve as a shelter, operation center and ensure that patients continue to receive their treatments.”The project, which also serves people from neighboring towns such as Maunabo and Humacao, has a share of over $2.3 million for mitigation measures such as the installation of motorized shutters, air conditioning units anchoring systems and an insulation treatment for the roof. The CDT serves 1,550 patients ever month and improvements are focused on updating the structure to meet the current codes and standards, which adds value to people’s health.Through its Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), FEMA has contributed to the updating of these building codes by obligating over $79.4 million to the PR Planning Board and Permits Management Office so that they could increase their staff to enforce building codes. Likewise, $5.5 million were obligated to review and implement the 2018 Puerto Rico Building Code. For his part, the executive director of the Central Office of Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that "as part of our commitment at COR3, we continuously guide the subrecipients on the process involved in the development of alternate or improved projects with the purpose of maximizing the use of funds allocated by FEMA, according to the need of the communities. This guidance is key to ensuring that permanent projects are executed in compliance with federal agency requirements and allowable activities.”To date, FEMA has obligated nearly $31.9 billion for over 10,900 recovery projects and over $4.2 billion for more than 6,400 municipal projects in Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane María.For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.  Yabucoa, Puerto Rico (August 22, 2023) - In the municipality of Yabucoa, FEMA awarded over $4.2 million for the improved project of the Diagnostic and Treatment Center (CDT, in Spanish) located in 901 Road at Pueblo neighborhood. The project, which also serves people from neighboring towns such as Maunabo and Humacao, has a share of over $2.3 million for mitigation measures such as the installation of motorized shutters, air conditioning units anchoring systems and an insulation treatment for the roof. Photo FEMA/Eduardo Martínez. manuel.deleon Thu, 02/15/2024 - 17:52
• FEMA Commits Nearly $1 Billion to Replace Roy Lester Schneider Hospital on St. Thomas
  FEMA Commits Nearly $1 Billion to Replace Roy Lester Schneider Hospital on St. Thomas ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands – A commitment of $928.7 million to demolish and replace Roy Lester Schneider Hospital on St. Thomas marks a milestone in FEMA’s collaboration with the territory to rebuild the healthcare infrastructure across the U.S. Virgin Islands damaged during hurricanes Irma and Maria in September 2017. The prudent replacement of Schneider Hospital made possible under the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 clears a path for the demolition of the five-story tall, 254,270-square-foot concrete masonry building and the construction of a new 439,910-square-foot hospital on the existing site in Sugar Estate.FEMA has now committed over $976,520,000 to replace Schneider Hospital and repair Charlotte Kimmelman Cancer Institute on St. Thomas. The project to repair Kimmelman Cancer Institute includes the demolition of the facility’s interior and $170,791 in hazard mitigation measures to make the facility more resilient to better withstand future hurricanes.Focus will continue with the Government of the U.S. Virgin Islands and U.S. Virgin Islands Office of Disaster Recovery to repair and replace hurricane-damaged facilities to pave a path for healthcare facilities to deliver medical care in an equitable manner for all Virgin Islanders.“I am proud our FEMA team in the U.S. Virgin Islands has put in the hard work with our partners in the territory to replace the Roy Lester Schneider Hospital on St. Thomas,” said Kristen A. Hodge, the Director for FEMA’s Recovery Office in the U.S. Virgin Islands. “Our resolve to work with our partners in the U.S. Virgin Islands to repair and rebuild medical facilities damaged from Irma and Maria remains strong. Our commitment with the territory is to ensure facilities such as Schneider Hospital are repaired and rebuilt to provide healthcare to Virgin Islanders for years to come.” gina.callaghan Tue, 02/13/2024 - 15:37
• Biden-Harris Administration Approves Federal Cost Share Increase for Hurricane Irma and Maria Projects in the U.S. Virgin Islands
  Biden-Harris Administration Approves Federal Cost Share Increase for Hurricane Irma and Maria Projects in the U.S. Virgin Islands WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced today that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the U.S. Virgin Islands by authorizing an increase in the level of federal funding for costs resulting from hurricanes Irma and Maria in September 2017. With this adjustment, eligible disaster costs will be funded at a 95% federal cost share and permanent work projects funded under Section 428 Alternative Procedures will now be funded at a 98% share for a fixed amount of time, including projects supporting the repair and replacement of critical services across the islands. These cost share adjustments are an extension of the Administration and FEMA’s commitments to supporting long-term recovery and making the territory more resilient to future storms. The Insular Area Act recognizes the U.S. Virgin Islands’ special circumstances and provides increased flexibility to maximize rebuilding efforts.Increasing the federal cost share will not only enable and accelerate needed recovery projects, but it will also allow the U.S. Virgin Islands to leverage existing Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery funding to address other critical aspects of disaster recovery, including resilient, affordable housing, economic revitalization and other projects that will invest in the territory’s future.The President acknowledges the challenges that the cost share requirement presented to the U.S. Virgin Islands and this increase will provide more than $1.1 billion in additional funding to accelerate holistic and resilient recovery across the territory.  amy.ashbridge Thu, 02/08/2024 - 23:02
• FEMA Reiterates its Commitment to a More Resilient Puerto Rico
  FEMA Reiterates its Commitment to a More Resilient Puerto Rico Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is leading efforts to develop resources and guidance for communities to understand and fulfill their critical role in achieving comprehensive resilience, while preparing for future natural disasters. As part of these efforts, FEMA’s senior official performing the duties of deputy administrator for Resilience, Victoria Salinas, visited the island to assess how hazard mitigation measures in several Puerto Rico reconstruction projects will help communities prepare for nature’s future challenges.An 86 percent of the projects under the Public Assistance Program for damage following Hurricane María have funding for hazard mitigation measures. To date, FEMA has allocated nearly $32 billion for over 10,900 projects under this disaster.Meanwhile, the agency has also obligated over $3 billion for 198 Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) projects to strengthen Puerto Rico’s resilience to future weather events.“For FEMA, resilience is critical to prepare communities, reduce suffering and accelerate recovery. Puerto Rico has a large number of projects that will exemplify resilience and which can be replicated for future disasters. Salinas’ visit reiterates the agency’s efforts to continue promoting a strong, long-term recovery for future generations,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.During her visit, Salinas participated in a tour of Caño Martín Peña, a 3.75-mile channel located within the San Juan Bay National Estuary. Extreme weather events, such as Hurricanes Irma and María in 2017, increased damage to this channel, which was already clogged with debris, sediment and organic residue.Salinas and other FEMA hazard mitigation leaders received an update on the status of the ENLACE Project, which brings together the three entities working for the physical, environmental and socioeconomic development of the eight Caño communities.FEMA has allocated nearly $35 million through its Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) to contribute to the rehabilitation of the San Juan Bay National Estuary. The project involves work to the stormwater systems, infrastructure and sanitation system. The work will provide resilience to the community by improving the living conditions, health and safety of their environment.As part of her tour, Salinas stressed the importance of community participation; of technical experts valuing the community wisdom; and of recovery having a holistic perspective, addressing mental health, economic development, and preparedness for future events and flooding, among other factors.“Often, agencies are filled with technical experts. We need our technical experts. But something that’s happened here — and is unique but should be replicated — is that technical solutions are always a range of options. And the community has been involved in looking at those options and seeing what makes the most sense for them. [...] And the fact that the process that has gone on has allowed for that dialogue is a way to do work in partnership with the people who benefit from the work,” said Salinas.Another important visit by the FEMA Mitigation team that exemplifies resilience was to the Coral Reef Nursery in Ceiba at the Center for Research and Restoration of Marine Organisms (CIROM, in Spanish). This is the first land-based coral and sea urchin nursery in Puerto Rico and is a project managed by the Institute for Socio-Ecological Research (ISER), a nonprofit organization that develops innovative research on coral reef ecological restoration, clean water and climate change science.FEMA approved nearly $39 million in funding to complete the restoration of the coral reef barrier in the San Juan metropolitan area. This mitigation project aims to reduce flooding and protect nearly 800 structures surrounding the communities of Escambrón, Condado, Ocean Park and Puntas Las Marías in the capital.Likewise, Salinas visited the Center for Puerto Rico (CPPR, in Spanish), the operating branch of the Sila María Calderon Foundation, to learn about the Center’s initiatives focused on addressing community empowerment, poverty reduction and inequality. With the help of FEMA’s HMGP funds, CPPR will install solar panels at eight community technology centers to ensure that services to these communities are not interrupted during disasters.Salinas also held meetings with some tourism industry officials to initiate the development of projects that consider the effects of climate change and address coastal erosion. These meetings were the beginning of the agency’s collaboration with the industry to move these initiatives forward.For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.Caño Martín Peña, San Juan, PR San Juan, Puerto Rico (January 23, 2024) – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) supports efforts to develop resources that help communities in achieving comprehensive resilience while preparing for future disasters. As part of these efforts, FEMA’s deputy administrator for Resilience in Washington, Victoria Salinas, visited Puerto Rico to assess how hazard mitigation measures in several reconstruction projects will help communities prepare for nature’s future challenges. During her visit, Salinas participated in a tour of Caño Martín Peña, a 3.75-mile channel located within the San Juan Bay National Estuary. Photo FEMA/Eliezer HernándezCoral Reef Nursery in Ceiba, PR Humacao, Puerto Rico (January 25, 2024) – FEMA’s deputy administrator for Resilience in Washington, Victoria Salinas visited the Coral Reef Nursery in Ceiba at the Center for Research and Restoration of Marine Organisms (CIROM, in Spanish). This is the first land-based coral and sea urchin nursery in Puerto Rico and is a project managed by the Institute for Socio-Ecological Research. Photo FEMA/Eduardo Martínez frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 02/05/2024 - 10:57
• FEMA Allocates Mitigation Funds for Nonprofit Institutions
  FEMA Allocates Mitigation Funds for Nonprofit Institutions Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) supports the work of several nonprofit organizations by allocating funds for projects that will reduce future damage to these institutions. Through its Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, the agency's allocations and technical assistance will ensure the continuity of services in these places in the face of future natural disasters. FEMA will provide funding to Centro Para Puerto Rico — the operational branch of the Sila María Calderón Foundation — for a solar-powered energy backup system that will provide resilience to eight Community Technology Centers (CTCs) located in Aguada, Arecibo, Canóvanas, Lajas, Loíza, Ponce, Rincón and San Germán.The agency will also fund the design and construction of a seismic retrofit project to reinforce an elevated potable water tank at San Lucas Memorial Hospital in Ponce.“These projects represent FEMA’s vision for a strong and resilient Puerto Rico. While there are hazards that we cannot prevent or avoid, we certainly can minimize the consequences of natural disasters through protective measures such as these,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero. CTCs support residents who have very limited knowledge about computers and online activity by helping them bridge the digital gap. These centers also provide services that include emergency response training and commodities distribution.While Centro Para Puerto Rico supports over 300 CTCs throughout the island, the agency funds will provide solar power at eight CTCs that have an immediate need for continuity in their emergency services, said Evelyn Nieves, Administration and Human Resources director at Fundación Sila María Calderón. “In case of an emergency, such as Hurricane María, from these centers we can continue providing food services, training and [help residents] complete FEMA disaster assistance applications,” she said.For his part, Israel Román Martínez, director of the social support group Surcando la Historia at Calle Abajo community in Lajas, said that adults well into their 70s have taken their first steps into the digital world thanks to the Lajas CTC. “One of our participants, who is about 80 years old, didn’t know a thing about technology. We taught him how to power up the computer, how to work on it and how to write with it. He’s a natural born historian and, all those stories he wrote on paper, he’s now writing them in a computer.”FEMA awarded nearly $50,000 for the first phase of this project. The total cost has a maximum funding of $1 million.Meanwhile and to the south of the island, Hospital San Lucas in Ponce has been serving nearby residents since 1907. While past hurricanes and the 2020 earthquakes did not cause irreparable damage to its structure, the hospital’s administration is concerned about a 333,000-gallon elevated potable water tank built in 1954, that is showing signs of deterioration.“The tank shows signs of corrosion, lack of adequate support and vulnerabilities. If it’s not repaired, there is no other structure that can provide the same water pressure and storage capacity. The risks of losing this structure could be catastrophic,” explained Juan Salazar Trogolo, chief executive officer at San Lucas Episcopal Health System.FEMA awarded $63,000 for phase one of this project and will obligate nearly $1.3 million in total for all the phases of this work. “Once the retrofit is complete, this structure will remain serviceable for 30 years, with annual maintenance and minor repairs as needed,” said Salazar.Hospital San Lucas receives over 75,000 patients per year from Ponce and other nine neighboring municipalities; while providing medical training to over 130 medical school residents.For his part, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that “both the community technology centers and the San Lucas Hospital in Ponce are characterized for being a community assistance network. The works approved by FEMA will address the factors that put these infrastructures at risk, as well as the operational continuity of both institutions. At COR3 we are committed to assisting them in the technical matters so that they can direct and complete these important works.”To date, FEMA has awarded more than $3 billion for 198 projects under FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program to strengthen Puerto Rico’s resilience in future atmospheric events.For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr. Centro Para Puerto Rico, San Juan, PR San Juan, Puerto Rico (January 25, 2024) - FEMA will provide funding to Centro Para Puerto Rico for a solar-powered energy backup system that will provide resilience to eight Community Technological Centers (CTCs) located in Aguada, Arecibo, Canóvanas, Lajas, Loíza, Ponce, Rincón and San Germán. Photo FEMA/Eduardo Martinez The Community Technology Center in Lajas, PR Lajas, Puerto Rico – The Community Technological Center located at Calle Abajo community in Lajas, PR is one of the eight centers where a solar-powered energy backup system will be provided by the Centro Para Puerto Rico through a FEMA award.  manuel.deleon Thu, 02/01/2024 - 19:34