AFI announces demolition of abandoned Puerta de Tierra pier structures

By THE STAR STAFF

The Infrastructure Financing Authority (AFI) announced on Sunday the beginning of mitigation and controlled demolition work on abandoned structures at Piers 11, 12 and 13 in Puerta de Tierra.

The initiative marks a significant step forward in modernizing the facilities and ensuring they meet environmental compliance standards under the Ports Authority’s jurisdiction, the AFI said.

Demolition of the first structure is set to begin today, following the completion of regulatory studies on controlled materials and the acquisition of necessary permits, in alignment with state and federal regulations.

Phase I encompasses five structures: four made of concrete and one of steel. Of those, four contained controlled materials, and three have already undergone the necessary mitigation process.

“Now that we’ve finalized these procedures, AFI can move on to controlled demolition and the certified disposal of materials,” AFI Executive Director Eduardo Rivera Cruz said.

He stressed that the project fully adheres to health, safety, and environmental regulations.

“We are committed to protecting nearby communities and ensuring a transparent, orderly process,” the official said.

The project is backed by $2.8 million in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act, which the governor advocated for during her time as resident commissioner.

In total, the project represents a $2.8 million investment, covering mitigation, demolition, disposal and inspection costs. The current phase is creating 30 direct jobs.

To comply with environmental and urban development regulations, AFI hosted informational meetings for residents of Falansterio and the Puerta de Tierra community, in partnership with the Municipality of San Juan.

Phase 2 will see the mitigation and demolition of a sixth structure located on the same property.

The project is expected to wrap up by next summer.