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Bill

RCC 223

Para ordenar al Departamento de Recursos Naturales y Ambientales (DRNA), al Departamento de Transportación y Obras Públicas (DTOP), al Negociado para el Manejo de Emergencias y Administración de Desastres (NMEAD) y al Instituto de Hidrología y Ciencias Ambientales de Puerto Rico a realizar un estudio exhaustivo sobre el estado de la Quebrada Mendoza en el Municipio de Cabo Rojo y del muro de contención ubicado detrás de la Urbanización Ana María que protege viviendas frente a dicha quebrada; con el fin de desarrollar e implementar medidas correctivas para prevenir inundaciones recurrentes en la comunidad, la Urbanización Ana María y para otros fines relacionados.

2025-2028 Session

Four Puerto Rico agencies must study flooding at Quebrada Mendoza in Cabo Rojo and develop flood prevention measures for Ana María urbanization and nearby communities.

Referido a Comisión(es)
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Bill Summary · RCC 223

Legislative bill overview

Bill RCC 223 mandates four Puerto Rico government agencies (Natural Resources, Transportation and Public Works, Emergency Management, and the Hydrology and Environmental Sciences Institute) to conduct a comprehensive study of Quebrada Mendoza in Cabo Rojo and the retaining wall behind Ana María urbanization that protects homes from flooding. The study aims to develop and implement corrective measures to prevent recurring floods in the area and related communities.

Why is this important

Recurring flooding threatens residential properties and community safety in the Ana María urbanization and surrounding areas. The bill addresses a documented infrastructure vulnerability by requiring technical assessment and planning for flood mitigation, which could prevent property damage, displacement, and loss of life during heavy rainfall events. Coordinating multiple agencies suggests recognition that this is a complex problem requiring integrated solutions.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding allocation: The bill doesn't specify who pays for the study or subsequent corrective measures, which could be expensive (structural repairs, drainage improvements, or relocation options)
  • Timeline and implementation: No deadline is set for the study completion or corrective action implementation, potentially leaving residents in vulnerable conditions indefinitely
  • Scope of responsibility: Unclear whether corrective measures are limited to the retaining wall or extend to broader watershed management, which could shift costs and jurisdiction between agencies

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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