- Pacific Island Times Staff
Trump approves disaster declaration for Guam for Wutip
Gov. Lourdes A. Leon Guerrero submitted a request for federal assistance after Typhoon Wutip struck the Marianas Feb.23. That request to Washington, D.C. for public assistance and the hazard mitigation grant program were awarded.
Feb. 23: Guam shoppers hit the hardware store as Typhoon Wutip approaches
The assistance includes funding for debris removal, repairs to roads and bridges and fixes/repairs to public buildings, public utilities, water control facilities and parks and other recreational facilities. The hazard mitigation program will assist Guam in rebuilding damaged facilities so that they are stronger, reducing long-term risk to life and property from natural hazards.
“Our critical infrastructure on island received extensive damage from Typhoon Wutip,” said the governor. “The Presidential Declaration will provide federal aid to supplement local recovery efforts that began immediately after the typhoon’s passing.”
Lt. Gov. Joshua Tenorio added: “While our government agencies and mayors did their best and joined forces to minimize the damage, and while we are grateful that it was not a direct hit, our island was still significantly impacted. We appreciate this favorable decision from President Trump and look forward to working with our federal counterparts from FEMA to move forward with the recovery process.”
President Trump has appointed Tracy A. Haynes as the Federal Coordinating Officer for recovery operations on Guam.