Customs says port inspection facility design work underway; agency pursuing federal PIDP funds

Senators asked Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency leaders about plans for a satellite inspection facility at the Port Authority and how the agency is seeking federal grants to pay for design and construction.

Senator Matata noted Public Law 38-86, which extended CQA authority to pursue a satellite facility, and asked for an update on A&E work. CQA said public works is managing the architecture-and-engineering procurement and that a vendor announcement is pending.

On federal funding, CQA said it applied for a PIDP grant and initially requested about $40,000,000 to cover construction and related works; one senator observed that roughly $26,000,000 might cover the core facility and internal fit-out. CQA and port staff said the project team is aligning the draft 2021 feasibility study with the Port Authority’s 2023 master plan to strengthen federal grant applications.

Lawmakers urged CQA and the Port Authority to move from study to implementation and to include any required matching or JV funds in upcoming budget submissions. Committee members said they will follow up on design award timelines and expect notices about potential PIDP awards later in the year.

Next steps: committee asked for updated feasibility, A&E award dates, and any grant-application timelines so the Legislature can evaluate matching needs and scheduling for construction.