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Puerto Rico Hurricanes: Status of FEMA Funding, Oversight, and Recovery Challenges

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Report Type Reports and Testimonies
Report Date March 14, 2019
Release Date March 14, 2019
Report No. GAO-19-256
Summary:

In 2017, Hurricanes Irma and Maria caused extensive damage throughout Puerto Rico, destroying roads and buildings and cutting power and communication lines. Puerto Rico estimates that $132 billion will be needed to repair and reconstruct its infrastructure and services.

FEMA has provided nearly $4 billion in public assistance grant funding to Puerto Rico as of September 2018, mostly for emergency work like debris removal. However, applicants in Puerto Rico have reported encountering challenges in applying for funding of more permanent projects (like repairs to roads)—including unclear guidance on how to properly apply for these funds.

Damages to a Dock at the Port of Ponce, Puerto Rico, September 2018

Crumbling pavement by the water.

Crumbling pavement by the water.

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