In a recent press conference held by the Puerto Rico Department of State on November 21, 2024, officials provided an update on the ongoing recovery and reconstruction efforts following Hurricane Maria. The discussions highlighted significant progress in the disbursement of federal funds, particularly from FEMA, which has allocated nearly $50 billion since the hurricane struck. Of this amount, approximately 48% has already been disbursed, indicating a substantial advancement in the recovery process.

Key figures revealed that around $24 billion has been disbursed specifically for long-term reconstruction efforts, primarily through upfront funding mechanisms introduced in 2022. This shift from a reimbursement model to advance payments has allowed municipalities and non-profit organizations to initiate projects more effectively. The construction sector has responded positively, reporting a surge in employment, with over 16,000 new jobs created since 2017, reflecting the increased demand for labor in the rebuilding efforts.

Despite these advancements, officials acknowledged that challenges remain. The reconstruction process is expected to take several more years, with estimates suggesting that municipal projects may require an additional three to five years for completion. Other agencies could take four to seven years to finalize their respective projects. This timeline underscores the complexity of the recovery efforts, which are being compared to the long-term rebuilding following Hurricane Katrina.

The press conference also addressed concerns regarding the potential elimination of the office overseeing these recovery efforts. Officials emphasized the importance of maintaining dedicated personnel with the necessary expertise to navigate the federal bureaucracy and ensure compliance with funding regulations. A recent audit by FEMA indicated a remarkably low error margin in the disbursement of funds, positioning Puerto Rico favorably compared to other states and territories in managing federal resources.

In conclusion, while the progress in disbursement and project initiation is commendable, the path to full recovery remains lengthy and complex. Officials reiterated their commitment to overcoming existing challenges and ensuring that the reconstruction efforts continue to move forward efficiently and effectively.