Kwajalein Atoll Development Authority (KADA) Executive Director Carl Hacker provided an update this week about ongoing work to improve conditions for the community on Ebeye and nearby islands.
Among key developments:
• Relocation of families for the Ebeye Elementary School Project. For the project to proceed, there is a need to relocate three families. Majuro Project Management Unit is working on a final valuation of the homes that can be presented to the families. Land for relocation of these families has been identified. “This school reconstruction project is a $20 million project that will take 4-5 years to complete once started.”
• Ebeye Dock repairs. Expected to cost over $400,000. “We have about $4.2 million in unspent Kwajalein Development Fund from previous years,” Hacker said. Discussion with the US Embassy on the possibility of the Seabees providing assistance, especially for an underwater inspection of the entire dock, is also underway.
• FY2016 KADA Budget. KADA’s budget has increased from $205,000 to $816,000. “I am looking to pay for the KADA Master Plan from this year’s budget,” Hacker said. “Currently working on purchase of pick up truck and renovation of old KADA offices with KALGov.”
• Mid Corridor Housing. Ads have gone out looking for Expressions of Interest for this project. “Originally the plan was to use the $4.2 million of prior year unspent KDF funding to help with this project, but expecting that project will be at least $8-$10 million when plans are completed,” said Hacker.
Hacker said the main challenge in addressing multiple needs at Kwajalein “is trying to get hold of and understand all potential funding streams for the future.”
Read more about Ebeye planning in the November 27, 2015 edition of the Marshall Islands Journal.