Professional planners, engineers, and environmental officers from various state agencies and municipalities in Puerto Rico recently attended a comprehensive training session on "Considerations for Developing Capacity to Complete HUD Environmental Reviews."

Conducted by HUD Field Environmental Officer Wilfrido Ortiz and Senior Community Planning and Development Representative Karla Pagan in the Municipality of Caguas, the training aimed to equip the 50 participants with the necessary skills and insights into the practical aspects of completing thorough environmental reviews under 24 CFR Part 58 for HUD-funded projects and activities.

Throughout the session, held in coordination with the Puerto Rico Association of Professional Planners, attendees learned the critical role of having qualified staff in the process. Ortiz and Pagan emphasized that environmental regulations are designed to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals benefiting from HUD programs and protect the environment. Feedback from attendees was positive as the training marked a step in ensuring compliance with environmental standards and fostering a safer, more sustainable environment for all.

For more information about future training sessions and resources, please contact the HUD office in San Juan.

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