Gov’t transfers $40 million to DTOP for landslide mitigation

The $40.2 million transferred to the Department of Transportation and Public Works will be available until June 30, 2026, and will be used to address landslides that impact the safety and accessibility of public roads.

By THE STAR STAFF

Gov. Jenniffer González Colón and Office of Management and Budget Director Orlando Rivera Berríos announced on Monday the transfer of $40.2 million to the Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTOP by its acronym in Spanish).

The funds will be available until June 30, 2026, and will be used to repair landslides that impact the safety and accessibility of public roads. The repairs will be carried out by the Highway and Transportation Authority.

“One of our first actions as governor was signing Executive Order 2025-004, which declares a state of emergency due to the critical condition of our road infrastructure and the landslides affecting various roads,” the governor said. “This transfer represents an important step in our government program to ensure the safety and continuity of essential services on public roads.”

Rivera Berríos added: “We are continuing to work closely with the relevant agencies to secure approval for additional funding to complete asphalt projects and effectively address critical road rehabilitation projects across the island.”

DTOP Secretary Edwin González expressed appreciation for the funds transfer, which he said “will expedite recovery efforts for the landslides experienced throughout the island.”

“Thanks to the executive order issued by the governor, we have already advanced multiple initiatives, and with this new allocation, we will continue to improve the quality of life for drivers who travel daily on the affected roads,” he added.