Washington, D.C. — Thursday, Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata welcomed official notice of a Department of Transportation (DOT) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grant for the airport at Fitiuta, Ta’u, designated to the runway lighting project.

The grant totaling $338,888 includes $33,888 from congressional appropriations for COVID-19 relief, with $305,000 in non-discretionary DOT/FAA grant funds to American Samoa Government for the project.

These federal funds are for the final phase of the runway lighting reconstruction effort, as the former lighting had to be replaced to meet FAA standards.

“Congratulations to Port Director Chris King, and those working on this important safety project for our Manu’a air service,” said Congresswoman Amata. “The new lighting will serve our people well, ensuring safe travels throughout our islands.”

“Thank you also to FAA Administrator Steve Dickson and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg for this assistance helping preserve dependable air service in American Samoa,” Amata concluded.