FEMA Commits $1.02B To Strengthen USVI Power and Communication Infrastructure

FEMA has allocated $1.02 billion to improve critical infrastructure in the U.S. Virgin Islands, marking a key step in the territory’s recovery from the impact of hurricanes Irma and Maria. The funding will support repairing and replacing communication towers and upgrading power plants on St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John, officials announced.

“This funding signals a fresh start for the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority and the Bureau of Information Technology,” said Adrienne L. Williams-Octalien, director of the Virgin Islands Office of Disaster Recovery. “It strengthens communication systems and energy resilience, better equipping the territory to face future weather events and threats.”

The allocation includes $161.5 million for BIT to restore damaged communication towers and enhance 911 emergency capabilities. On the energy front, $205.9 million will support the Randolph Harley Power Plant on St. Thomas, including replacing two generation units and repairing seven others. St. Croix’s Richmond Power Plant will receive $661 million to replace eight turbine generators, transformers, and critical substation infrastructure, according to the press release.

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. highlighted the broader significance of the investment: “This $1.02 billion FEMA commitment is about more than replacing infrastructure. It’s about transformation—creating modern, resilient systems that reflect the determination of Virgin Islanders to build a stronger future.”