FEMA Authorizes $1.6 Million To State Of Yap For Infrastructure Repairs
Release Date: December 3, 2004
Release Number: R9-04-105
» 2004 Region IX News Releases
OAKLAND, Calif. -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has released $1.6 million in public assistance funds to the state of Yap in the Federated States of Micronesia. The funds will be used to help fortify the island’s electrical distribution system, which was damaged during Typhoon Sudal in April.
Yap’s Public Service Corporation will install wooden power poles between existing power poles throughout the island. With these additions, the space between poles will be cut in half from 300 feet to 150 feet, strengthening the system. Yap also will stabilize every tenth pole with a “storm guy” anchor system designed to prevent high wind damage.
The project is estimated to total $1.8 million. United States funding to reimburse the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) for its costs involving infrastructure damaged in the state of Yap by Typhoon Sudal has been increased.
Under U.S. President George W. Bush’s April 10, 2004, disaster declaration, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security through FEMA’s Public Assistance program was providing 75 percent of the eligible costs for debris removal, emergency protective measures, and repair or replacement of damaged public property in Yap. The U.S. government aid, as of July 23, has been increased to 90 percent, with the state and affected local governments responsible for the remaining 10 percent.
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Friday, 03-Dec-2004 08:22:53