Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Department of Public Works hosted a dedication ceremony this past Tuesday, Sept. 17, for the Matatula Access Road and Slope Stabilization Projects.

Director Faleosina Voigt provided details on the two projects in a press release, noting that the Matatula access road and slope stabilization work was completed in 240 days. However, work is still ongoing for the access roads extending from Tula to Alofau, covering approximately 12,573 linear feet. These projects including the access roads from Tula to Alofau are being carried out by Paramount Builders at a total cost of $11,593,718.60.

Lt. Governor La’apui Talauega E. V. Ale spoke on behalf of the Administration, congratulating Matatula on their completed projects. He extended special thanks to the Senate President and Speaker of the House for their continued support of government initiatives. “The American Samoa Government cannot fulfill its duties and responsibilities without the support and blessings from the Fono. On behalf of the Honorable Governor, I would like to convey our gratitude for your support in all the projects that we are pursuing which are not for us, but for our people. We hope and pray that we continue to work together for the future of American Samoa.”

After expressing appreciation to Paramount Builders for their role in enhancing the island's infrastructure Lt. Governor La’apui added, "We anticipate that access to our villages on the eastern side of the island is now improved, and the steps taken to stabilize the beachfront slopes will enhance the safety of our villages.”

Papalii Lauli’i Alofa, the President and CEO of Paramount Builders, thanked the villages for their support and hospitality throughout the construction process. He highlighted that the involvement of village councils in mobilizing the community to supply rocks, stone and gravel for aggregates in asphalt production significantly facilitated their work.

Reverend Felise Augafa of “O le Ala e Sao ai I le Ola” CCCAS, Tula, delivered the invocation and quoted Scripture from the Book of Psalms, chapter 19: “The glory of God is displayed through the world He created.” Reverend Augafa elaborated “We have all gathered to witness the completion of this access road and slope stabilization to make transportation easy for this side of the island, and the safety measures provided to assist in damage prevention from natural disasters. All the glory belongs to God, because this is His work that we are now displaying.”

Guests included Lt. Governor La’apui Talauega E.V. Ale, Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean, Speaker of the House Savali Talavou Ale, cabinet members, and the communities of Matatula and Alao, who were warmly welcomed by Master of Ceremonies Ta’afua Ta’afua.

The dedication ceremony ended with the DPW Director cutting the ribbon to officially open the Matatula New Access Road and Slope Stabilization projects.