May 12, 2026 - La Fortaleza, Puerto Rico – Governor Jenniffer González-Colón announced the approval of major infrastructure improvement projects for Puerto Rico by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) as part of $596 million approved during the second quarter of Fiscal Year 2026 to strengthen and modernize Veterans healthcare facilities nationwide.

The announcement, made by VA Secretary Doug Collins, includes multiple projects at the VA Medical Center in San Juan that will directly improve healthcare services, emergency preparedness, and the resiliency of facilities serving Puerto Rico’s Veteran community.

Projects approved for Puerto Rico during the second quarter include:

·       Construction of a new Spinal Cord Injury Gym at the main VA Medical Center building in San Juan.

·       Infrastructure upgrades to support modernization of the electronic health records system.

·       Hurricane hardening improvements at the generator farm.

·       Relocation of the Psychiatric Intervention Center closer to the Emergency Department to improve patient response and coordination.

·       Replacement of CT Scan and X-Ray equipment to strengthen diagnostic capabilities.

·       Upgrades to the domestic water system to improve resiliency during hurricanes and emergencies.

Governor González-Colón also highlighted that these projects build upon additional initiatives previously approved during the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2026 for the VA facilities in San Juan, including:

·       Replacement of cast iron and malleable fittings and piping components.

·       Studies to identify A307 bolts in steam and hot water piping systems.

·       Additional upgrades to the domestic water system for hurricane resiliency.

·       Relocation of the Psychiatric Intervention Center to the Emergency Department area.

“These investments represent a strong commitment to the men and women who served our nation with honor,” said Governor Jenniffer González-Colón. “Our Veterans deserve modern, resilient, and fully prepared healthcare facilities, and this announcement marks significant progress for Puerto Rico.”

The Governor also recognized the work of the Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Administration (PRFAA) in Washington, D.C., for maintaining close coordination with federal agencies and supporting efforts to advance priorities that directly benefit Veterans and healthcare infrastructure in Puerto Rico.

PRFAA Executive Director Gabriella Boffelli stated that “under Governor Jenniffer González Colón’s leadership, Puerto Rico continues strengthening its partnership with the federal government to secure greater resources, modern infrastructure, and quality healthcare services for our Veterans.”

According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, these investments are part of a nationwide strategy to repair and modernize medical facilities, strengthen critical systems, and improve operational readiness and emergency resiliency.

“President Donald Trump and Secretary Doug Collins are delivering for America’s Veterans and strengthening the services they receive across the nation,” added Governor González-Colón. “Puerto Rico will continue aggressively advocating for the federal resources our Veterans have earned through their service and sacrifice.”

###

‍