State of the Territory: Infrastructure a key pillar of economic development

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — In Gov. Lemanu P.S. Mauga’s State of the Territory Address, which he delivered in a joint session at the opening of the 3rd regular session of the 38th Legislature on Monday, he emphasized the more than 100 infrastructure projects that he said are part of the foundation of the Lemanu –Talauega administration’s stated commitment to shaping the territory’s economic development.

“Under the Lemanu- Talauega administration, American Samoa has witnessed the completion and ground-breaking of nearly 100 transformative infrastructure projects on the landscape of our Territory. Numerous residential and access roads now crisscross the islands, connecting communities and instilling a sense of unity. Families are already enjoying the benefits of completed road projects spanning from Laulii through Alofau, Taputimu through Leone, and the Nuuuli Airport Intersection for example making daily commutes shorter, smoother, and cleaner,while reducing the wear-and-tear on vehicles.”

Lemanu said that their administration continues to improve infrastructure to schools as well, including Leone Midkiff Elementary, Pavaiai Elementary, and Aunuu Elementary, saying, “students will enjoy new classrooms and renovated cafeterias, providing an environment conducive to learning and growth.”

The governor talked about how improved infrastructure would enhance accessibility to essential services, promote economic growth, and bolster the interconnectedness of communities by creating spaces where “families can gather – providing an outlet for physical activities that positively impacts mental health and well-being.”

He also acknowledged Swains Island and Manu’a issues including transportation, and medical and social needs.  And he acknowledged for the first time that the Lemanu- Talauega administration is working towards better addressing these issues by partnering with Pago Wings,

The new Pago Wings airline, owned by businessman Papali'i Laulii Alofa, will be operating charters under Hawaii-based Pacific Air Cargo, according to Pago Wings chief executive Marshall Ashley, who said in an earlier report that they are looking primarily at charters for Manu'a including government operations flights.

The first aircraft for the airline, a 9-seat Tecnam Traveller arrived in the territory in Sept. 2023 and the airline plans to have 10-12 pilots rotating in and out of Hawaii for the service in the territory, with one pilot stationed permanently on island