Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett has announced a substantial $189 million in funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority. The funds aim to repair the damages caused by Hurricane Maria, which severely impacted the electrical distribution system throughout the U.S. Virgin Islands, including St. Croix.

Authorized under Section 428 of the Robert T. Stafford Act, the financial support is expected to significantly enhance the resilience of the Virgin Islands’ electrical distribution system. The allocated funds will not only strengthen the infrastructure but also increase the resiliency and independence of the energy grid. Congresswoman Plaskett emphasized that this investment would contribute to the economic well-being and prosperity of all Virgin Islanders.