Governor Mapp Impressed By FEMA’S Disaster Distribution Center In PR

ST. THOMAS — On Friday, Governor Kenneth Mapp toured the the Puerto Rican arms of the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region II-Caribbean Area Division; and the Caribbean distribution center and logistic operation at the invitation of FEMA officials, according to a press release issued by Government House on Saturday.

Mapp, who, during a recent press conference held at Government House in Christiansted, St. Croix, responded to critics of his recent travels by stating that in order to grow the territory’s economy and find new ways to spur growth, traveling outside the islands is essential, said he was impressed by FEMA’s PR distribution center.

“The Caribbean distribution center is very impressive,” Mapp said. “I am comforted by the fact that this center is one of eight in the nation and it is virtually next door. We had a chance to view the inventory including everything from water, to tarps to generators, even a mobile command unit. All of these items are at our disposal in the event of a disaster.”

The FEMA Caribbean distribution center is one of eight in the nation. It is 80,000 sq. feet self-sustaining facility. Currently, its inventory includes, but is not limited to: 15,344-plastic sheeting, 13,272-Tarps, 71 FMC generators 20kw-800kw, 6,018-blankets, 2,872 cots, 1 IMAT mobile command operation vehicle, 5,179 blue roof rolls, 888,654 litres of water, 457,586 meals, medical supplies, infant and toddler kits and medical kits.

In the event of a disaster, within six hours of FEMA’s notification, Crowley, one of the world’s largest shipping and logistics firm, will provide sea and ground transportation to move federal resources from several airports, seaports, and the distribution center to the territory.

The governor was joined by his Chief of Staff Randy Knight, Communications Director Kimberly Jones, Property and Procurement nominee Randolph Bennett and the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency Director, Mona Barnes.