Amata Welcomes $2 Million FEMA Storm Gita Grant for American Samoa
Washington, D.C. – Tuesday, Congresswoman Aumua Amata welcomed a federal grant based on Storm Gita totaling nearly $2 million ($1.925 million) for American Samoa Power Authority.
"I'm pleased to welcome these federal funds to our islands to continue to help restoration efforts in American Samoa following Storm Gita," said Aumua Amata. "The accumulation of federal funding like this can make a big difference for our Territory, and I'm happy to pass along this good news."
Specifically, the grant of $1,925,895.62 is through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for power needs and damage restoration.
Congresswoman Amata and FEMA Administrator Brock Long in Washington.
Tropical Storm Gita caused damages to 553 utility poles, 10 feeder lines and 77 solar panel modules at the American Samoa airport. The storm also damaged the Tafuna main compound of the Power Authority, including the buildings, two waste water facilities, four lift stations, an estimated 50 power poles, associated wire, and security fencing island wide. This grant is in direct response to those costs associated with power restoration, waste water and associated buildings, and include labor, equipment and materials.
"I want to especially express appreciation to FEMA Administrator Brock Long for this support for American Samoa," continued Congresswoman Amata. "Thank you also to Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen for this federal storm assistance."
"Thank you to all those working on these projects with the American Samoa Power Authority in any way, and thank you to Governor Lolo and his team," concluded Amata. "I appreciate the efforts of you all, ASPA leadership, the Board, employees and contractors as you restore these facilities. I'd also like to remember our friend, High Chief Utu Abe Malae, whose leadership was instrumental during the response and recovery of this storm."
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