americansamoa.gov

The American Samoa Government (ASG) has provided an update on its efforts under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), highlighting its significance in the Territory's recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. As of December 31, 2024, American Samoa has successfully obligated the full $494 million in ARPA funding received from the US Treasury. This funding is being utilized across various initiatives aimed at stimulating the economy, enhancing public services, and fostering long-term resilience in the
community.

In addition to previously existing initiatives from the past administration, Governor Pulaali’i N. Pula recently approved the following additional ARPA Projects under the Governor’s Office Emergency Relief Award of $20 million from the New Hospital Medical Facility Reallocation.

​

• Department of Homeland Security: Territorial Communication Infrastructure Project

• Department of Search and Rescue: EMS, Fire Protection, Marine Patrol, Emergency Preparedness

• Department of Public Safety: Emergency Police Academy

• Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources: Emergency Multi-Purpose Vessel

• Territorial Administration on Aging: Infrastructure for Emergency Preparedness

• Ronald Reagan Shipyard Services Authority: Retrofitting Shoreline Emergency Management

• Office of Vocational Rehabilitation: Emergency Preparedness Infrastructure

​

ARPA funding remains a crucial resource, supporting temporary staff assignments across various departments in order to expedite the implementation of initiatives. A detailed feature regarding the establishment of the ARPA Office, including its staffing, structural organization, and significant role in fostering economic recovery and resilience in American Samoa, will be published in the near future.

The Argosy Building located in Tafuna is scheduled to close this month as part of a strategic decision to sell the property to the Department of Health (DOH). This acquisition will allow the DOH to establish its new headquarters, thereby consolidating staff and enhancing operational efficiency in the delivery of healthcare services.

In parallel, the ARPA Panel Advisory will conduct interviews to explore additional strategies for improving shipping access to American Samoa. Furthermore, the public is encouraged to review the ongoing ARPA projects, which include comprehensive descriptions and funding allocations, available on the ASG ARPA webpage.

The Communications Team will also engage in interviews to collect information intended for public dissemination, thereby promoting transparency in the process.

For validation or further inquiries, the public may contact the ARPA Executive Director Robert Gebauer at 699-2772.
 

About ARPA

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) is a federal initiative designed to support economic recovery across the United States following the COVID-19 pandemic. It allocates substantial funding to American Samoa, focusing on infrastructure improvement, strengthening public health systems, aiding local businesses, and creating job opportunities. The goal is to address the pandemic's economic impact while promoting sustainable growth and resilience in affected areas.

To ensure the effective use of these funds, the ARPA Oversight Office oversees the implementation and allocation of resources in American Samoa. Its primary objectives include ensuring compliance with legal requirements regarding fund usage, promoting transparency and accountability in funded projects, adhering to public health measures, and prioritizing the well-being of the local population.