The Department of Public Works (DPW) has secured $19.3 million in Fiscal Year 2026 BUILD grant funding from the US Department of Transportation to rebuild the Route 001 Leone to Nu’uuli road.
This major federal investment will support much-needed rehabilitation of a critical section of Route 001 between Leone and Nu’uuli, including roadway, drainage, traffic safety, and related improvements.
The project is intended to improve the condition, safety, and reliability of this heavily traveled corridor for the communities and traveling public it serves. The $19,312,986 BUILD award covers the estimated total project cost identified in the award notice.
Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula welcomed the announcement, saying, “This is outstanding news for the people of American Samoa and another important step forward in our Administration’s continued efforts to serve our people through meaningful investments in infrastructure. We are grateful for this federal award, which will strengthen one of our busiest transportation corridors, improve safety, and provide more reliable travel for the families, workers, students, businesses, and visitors who rely on Route 001 every day.”
The Leone to Nu’uuli project will address important infrastructure needs along this critical section of the route and strengthen the Territory’s transportation network.
Director of Public Works Taeaotui Punaofo Tilei said, “This $19.3 million award is a significant investment in American Samoa’s transportation infrastructure and the communities that depend on Route 001 every day.
“I am grateful to our DPW team and our partners for their work and commitment in pursuing this opportunity. Securing the funding is an important achievement, but now comes the responsibility of delivering the project, maintaining accountability, and ensuring that every dollar is used for its intended purpose.”
The successful BUILD grant application was a collaborative effort led by the DPW Director’s Office and Civil/Highway Division, with valuable guidance and technical assistance from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the Hawai’i Department of Transportation (HDOT), and HDOT’s AECOM team.
