Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is welcoming additional federal funding news for the major runway rehabilitation project at the Pago Pago International Airport. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has notified Congresswoman Amata of a grant totaling $8,888,888, or approximately $8.9 million.

These funds are available based on the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, as well as the American Rescue Plan Act, which includes $888,888 in COVID relief funds that increase the federal share to 100 percent.

 “I’m delighted these important funds continue to come through for this key project,” said Aumua Amata. “Congratulations to Governor Lemanu Mauga, Lt. Governor Talauega Ale, and Port Director Chris King.”

The DOT announced intent to fund this project in September 2021, followed by congressional notification earlier this month of major funding of over $18.8 million, mainly in discretionary funds, based on Fiscal Year 2022 Appropriations passed by Congress in March. This week’s announcement of further supplemental grant funding centers on 923 feet of the 5,000-foot runway rehabilitation project.

“Thank you to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg for ensuring the necessary funding comes together for this sizable project,” concluded Amata. “This is one of the longest runways in all of the Pacific Islands, a project that takes a substantial commitment, and it is important to have it in good shape for years to come.”