Vieques receives $2.5 million for infrastructure in FY 2026

By THE STAR STAFF

Vieques Mayor José “Junito” Corcino Acevedo announced Wednesday that the island municipality received $2.5 million for the implementation of critical infrastructure projects.

“Today, we are delighted with the arrival of $2.5 million in funding for permanent construction and critical projects, among others,” Corcino Acevedo said in a press release. “This allocation is vital for the continued development of our municipality. We want to thank the Speaker of the House of Representatives and our representative, Carlos ‘Johnny’ Méndez, for this achievement, which represents so much for our people.”

Joint Resolution No. 11 -2025 allocates $15 million in funds from the Joint Budget Resolution for fiscal year (FY) 2025-2026 with the objective of providing funds to semi-public entities and institutions, such as municipalities and private entities whose activities or services promote the development of programs and social welfare, health, education, culture, and to improve the quality of life on the island.

“Since January 2021, we have embarked on an aggressive program to rehabilitate and reconstruct our infrastructure, including roads and bridges, sports and recreational facilities, and areas of community interest,” the mayor noted. “We are doing this with the goal of improving the quality of life for all Vieques residents. With this allocation, for which we also recognize the efforts of the Office of Management and Budget, we will have a fund to continue this social interest work.”

The mayor added that in the coming days he will be outlining the parameters for the use of the newly allocated funds.

The bill’s preamble states that it “seeks not only to strengthen existing nonprofit organizations, but also to foster the creation of new community initiatives capable of responding in an innovative and sustainable manner to the social challenges facing Puerto Rico.”