By Emmanuel T. Erediano
[email protected]
Variety News Staff
THE CNMI has been awarded federal funds to address per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS in drinking water, other emerging contaminants, and airport improvements, Delegate Kimberlyn King-Hinds announced in her e-newsletter Monday.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, according to King-Hinds, announced a total of $15.65 million in funding to address PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” in drinking water and to replace lead pipes in the CNMI. Of this amount, $9.45 million will be made available for the Commonwealth Utilities Corp. and private well owners to support testing, planning, and infrastructure projects addressing PFAS and other emerging contaminants on the EPA’s list, such as manganese, perchlorate, and 1,4-dioxane.
The EPA also announced $6.2 million in new grant funding to locate and replace lead water pipes in the CNMI. Lead is a powerful neurotoxin that is especially harmful to children. Together, these grants aim to ensure the safety and cleanliness of the CNMI’s drinking water.
King-Hinds also shared that the CNMI has been awarded $2.095 million through the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Terminal Program to support improvements at the Francisco C. Ada/Saipan International Airport.
The funding will help modernize terminal operations through the installation of common-use equipment at ticket counters and boarding gates, improving operational flexibility and reducing passenger wait times for travelers and families using the Saipan airport.
“As our islands continue rebuilding and strengthening critical infrastructure, investments like this help improve the travel experience, support tourism and economic activity, and ensure our airport is better equipped to serve residents and visitors alike. We will continue to advocate for federal investments that strengthen the CNMI’s transportation infrastructure and connectivity,” King-Hinds said, while congratulating the Commonwealth Ports Authority, where she served as board chair before being elected CNMI delegate to the U.S. Congress.
Emmanuel “Arnold” Erediano has a bachelor of science degree in Journalism. He started his career as police beat reporter. Loves to cook. Eats death threats for breakfast.
