The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is providing over $8.9 million to American Samoa for water infrastructure projects.
Alexis Strauss, acting EPA Regional Administrator for the Pacific Southwest says, “EPA’s funding will help American Samoa provide safer drinking water while protecting its coral reefs and aquatic ecosystems.”
She said, “We will continue to support ASPA to ensure safe drinking water and adequate sanitation for the residents of American Samoa.”
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.
Past projects include the East Side Village sewer line extension, and the UV disinfection project at the American Samoa Wastewater Treatment plant.
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.
