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On Monday, San Juan Mayor Miguel Romero Lugo declared that he has fulfilled the requirement for using all resources allocated through the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund (CSLFRF) as part of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
According to the mayor’s statement, these funds have played a crucial role in meeting the needs of the communities most impacted by the COVID-19 crisis, and have been directed toward significant initiatives that comply with the guidelines set by ARPA.
“The effective management of these funds has enabled us to greatly enhance the quality of life for our most at-risk residents,” Romero Lugo stated. “We have channeled investments into vital sectors, including housing, infrastructure, public safety, sports, and recreational facilities, in addition to social development programs, such as support for victims of gender violence, providing solar batteries to needy individuals, offering housekeeping services for seniors, purchasing ambulances, and creating an educational platform. All of this has been executed to ensure direct benefits for our community, maximizing the effectiveness and transparency of every dollar spent.”
ARPA designated $350 billion for local authorities via the CSLFRF, with the Municipality of San Juan receiving an allocation totaling $237,708,158. The stipulation of ARPA mandates that all funds must be obligated by December 31, 2024, and fully utilized by December 31, 2026.
The initiatives funded by ARPA resources include:
1. Your Streets Up to Date — $75 million — A road infrastructure initiative aimed at the reconstruction and resurfacing of streets, avenues, and municipal roads. This investment enhances access to employment hubs and businesses in the Capital City, aiding the economic recovery of local communities.
2. Public Safety — $63.5 million — Programs designed to recruit and hire police personnel, bolstering security measures in San Juan. It encompasses the Community Security and Surveillance Program, which enhances the safety of residents in the Capital City. Furthermore, substantial resources have been allocated to upgrade Municipal Police equipment, facilitating the acquisition of new patrol vehicles, motorcycles, body cameras, and bulletproof vests.
3. Social Welfare — $18.8 million — Funds within this sector were distributed to:
* Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline Program (939-CONTIGO): A confidential support service providing psychological first aid, crisis intervention, and legal assistance, available 24/7.
* Rechargeable Portable Battery Program: An alternative energy solution aimed at reducing the risks posed by power outages on the health and safety of patients reliant on essential medical devices.
* Housekeeping Program: Services aiding low- or moderate-income households with elderly or disabled individuals who encounter challenges in their daily routines and need additional support.
4. Sports and Recreational Facilities — Investments aimed at enhancing facilities that promote healthy lifestyles and improve the physical and mental well-being of individuals and families, including Caparra Heights Park, Barbosa Park, Josefa Fontán Park, Central Park, and Adolfo Dones.
“These initiatives are not merely about achieving financial targets; they embody our vision for serving our community,” said Romero Lugo. “Each project funded by these resources represents our commitment to building a fairer, safer, and future-ready San Juan. We will persist in our efforts to elevate the living standards of our residents, consistently adhering to the transparency and accountability that define us.”
