WATER system improvements, which are necessary to accommodate the increased demands of a population growth related to the military buildup, may require private sector involvement, according to the final environmental impact statement.
The final impact report recommended that a private business entity be “formed to finance, develop, upgrade, operate and manage on and off base potable water infrastructure associated with the military relocation.”
The Department of Defense recognizes the seriousness of the needed upgrades, warning that any failure to secure funding could result in “significant environmental impacts” and a delay in construction.
The final study noted that DoD would not issue construction contracts or task orders until required improvements are made.
“Such action would severely impact the construction pace and the ability of Navy to complete required construction to support the Marine Corps relocation,” states the final report.
“DoD acknowledges the existing sub-standard conditions of key public infrastructure systems and social services on Guam and the interest to have DoD fund improvements to these systems and services,” the report stated.
The impact study noted that DoD’s capacity to fund such things is limited by federal law, and they are “leading a federal interagency effort to identify other federal programs and funding sources that could benefit the people of Guam.”
Japan is expected to provide $6.09 billion for the Marines’ move to Guam, according to the Realignment Roadmap Agreement between the U.S. and Japan. This includes $2.8 billion in direct cash contributions to develop facilities and infrastructure on Guam.
Of this amount, Japan will provide $740 million for utilities upgrades, expansion, and development associated with the Marine Corps relocation.
The improvements that must be accomplished in the first five years will cost approximately $1.3 billion, according to the report.
DoD has arranged for funding to ensure Guam Waterworks Authority’s northern district waste water treatment plant provides fully compliant primary treatment by 2013.
Japan is considering funding approximately $60 million to cover repairs and upgrades to restore the capability of the primary wastewater treatment plant.
Construction is planned to begin in January 2011 and be completed by December 2012.
“The ability for GWA to secure necessary funding for the required CIP remains a key concern and a potential impediment to the Guam military relocation effort and the return of GWA to full compliance with the Clean Water Act,” the document stated.
Private sector aid sought for water projects
