ConDig (18-Jan-18).  The U.S. Virgin Islands is set to receive a further $6.5 million in emergency relief funds to repair hurricane-damaged roads and bridges.

The additional aid by The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) follows $8 million in funds previously made available to the U.S. Virgin Islands for repairs following the havoc wreaked by Hurricanes Maria and Irma. This brings the total amount to $14.5 million for emergency work.

FHWA said the bulk of the latest funds provided will be used to restore traffic signal service on the islands of St. Thomas and St. Croix and aid in the repair to damaged intersections critical to highway safety.

“The work continues to rebuild broken transportation links in the U.S. Virgin Islands in the aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and Maria,” said acting FHWA administrator Brandye L. Hendrickson. “These additional funds will help ensure residents can travel safely.”

FHWA

The U.S. Virgin Islands were hit by Maria and Irma, both Category 5 hurricanes, just two weeks apart in September.

Puerto Rico has also received $40 million to repair roads and bridges damaged by Hurricane Maria.