Vieques and Culebra ferry rates to increase next year
The Integrated Transportation Authority (ATI) announced that rates will increase for tourists traveling by ferry to the islands of Vieques and Culebra by early next year. The ATI says that the exact date will be determined in coordination with the municipalities to ensure that local residents are not impacted. Rates will also increase for freight and motor vehicles, with the expectation that the cost of taking a small car to the island will jump from $13-$15 per trip to as much as $40 to $50 per trip.
President Biden and Secretary Raimundo announce new Tech Hub in Puerto Rico
President Biden and Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo announced last week the designation of 31 communities across the country as Regional Innovation and Technology Hubs, or “Tech Hubs.” These tech hubs include the PRBio Tech Hub in San Juan. The funds are the result of the CHIPS and Science Act, authorizing direct investments into high-potential U.S. regions with the aim of turning them into globally competitive innovation centers. The PRBio Tech Hub is a consortium led by the Puerto Rico Science, Technology, and Research Trust. As a designated Tech Hub, PRBio will now be eligible to apply for tens of millions of dollars in the coming years as officials seek to promote the region as a global leader in biotechnology and medical device production.
EPA announces $2.4 million for new Puerto Rico projects
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced last week $2.4 million in new funding for four projects in Puerto Rico to advance environmental justice initiatives. The projects will support historically disadvantaged communities and focus on community outreach, climate resilience, and nature-based programming, among other goals. Three projects will receive $500,000 each: the Atma Connect in San Juan for its Grassroots Leadership, Education, and a Safe Water Quality Network; the PathStone Corporation for its Environmental Justice Collaborative Problem-Solving Project in Arecibo, Baceloneta, and Utuado; and the Sociedad Ambiente Marino in San Juan. Additionally, the municipality of Vega Baja received over $978,0000 for its project assisting communities in identifying, preventing, and eliminating blighted properties and associated health and environmental risks.
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