WASHINGTON, D.C. – (RealEstateRama) — Congresswoman Aumua Amata, announced today that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded a grant in the amount of $8.9 million to American Samoa for water infrastructure projects.
“These important funds will be used to make our water safer to drink, while also protecting our local marine habitat,” stated Amata. “It is essential that we ensure the continued safety of our water by updating and repairing our water infrastructure, and these grant funds will be a great help in that mission,” continued the Congresswoman.
Since 2010, EPA has awarded over $58 million in Clean Water and Safe Drinking Water State Revolving Funds to the American Samoa Power Authority (ASPA), which provides utility services to residents for the design and construction of drinking water and wastewater infrastructure.
This year’s funding will fund water infrastructure to improve drinking water quality, including removing existing boil water notices, as well as prevent water pollution. Targeted projects include connection of new wells to drinking water systems, a new water storage tank at Upper Pago Pago, waterline improvements, and a sewer line extension to Aua village.
“I want to thank the officials at the EPA who recognized the need for these improvements and awarded this grant. I also want to thank our local officials including ASPA Executive Director Utu Abe Malae, his team, as well as ASEPA Director Ameko Pato and his staff for helping to secure this important funding for our home,” concluded Amata.
