New York Construction Report staff writer
Members of NYC’s department of buildings, transportation and design and construction left for Peurto Rico on Thursday, to aid in relief efforts following Hurricane Fiona. They will join representatives from the Puerto Rico Emergency Management Agency (PREMA), the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA)
President Biden has announced that the federal government will cover 100% of the cost of Hurricane Fiona cleanup for the next month.
“Once again, our brothers and sisters in Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and other Caribbean countries are facing darkness because of a devastating hurricane. With Hurricane Fiona leaving the region, we know that this is a painful moment for so many here in our city and across the globe,” Mayor Adams said at a news conference.
“New York City stands with our brothers and sisters in Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and all affected countries.
“A first group of emergency responders are already on the ground, ready to respond and assess the needs, and we are ready, willing, and able to send additional assistance needed to those impacted by this devastating storm. I want to thank all the staff at NYCEM, and all our first responders, for their work aiding all those affected.”
A 12-member relief team of experts includes Manny Martinez, a logistics specialist with NYC Urban Search & Rescue who said the first priority is to complete an assessment of damage to infrastructure and essential services and to determine what help is needed.
Fiona made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane, dumped more than 25 inches of rain in 72 hours and causing landslides, washed-out roads and bridges and leaving debris in the streets. Two-thirds of the island is still without power.
“Once again, our brothers and sisters in Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and other Caribbean countries are facing darkness because of a devastating hurricane,” NY Mayor Eric Adams said. “With Hurricane Fiona leaving the region, we know that this is a painful moment for so many here in our city and across the globe. New York City stands with our brothers and sisters in Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and all affected countries.”
The Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City has created a webpage, which directs those interested in donating to those affected by Hurricane Fiona to some trusted nonprofits.
“Hurricane Fiona has caused significant damage to the island of Puerto Rico, leaving many of the over 3 million American citizens without basic needs like electricity, clean water, and other critical items we take for granted,” said U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand.
“In times of such crisis, it’s important we all come together to provide Puerto Rico with the necessary tools to rebuild stronger than ever and be able to weather future storms.”
