Engineering Management Strategies for Optimizing FEMA-Funded School Reconstruction Programs in Puerto Rico

Abstract

FEMA-funded school reconstruction programs in Puerto Rico face significant engineering management challenges related to schedule delays, cost variability, environmental reviews, procurement complexity, and stakeholder coordination. This study applied a structured engineering management approach using process mapping, schedule analysis, and performance indicators to evaluate reconstruction initiatives associated with Hurricane Maria, seismic retrofitting projects, and the INNOVA program. The analysis identified that INNOVA projects exhibited the highest average schedule delay at 28% and the highest average cost variance at 22%, while straight repair projects demonstrated more stable performance indicators. Procurement processes, environmental reviews, interagency coordination, and FEMA administrative requirements were identified as critical bottlenecks affecting schedule performance and project execution.