American Samoa Government - PR001-07252025
Posted: July 25, 2025
Groundbreaking Ceremony Marks New Chapter for
LBJ Tropical Medical Center

FAGA'ALU, American Samoa — A groundbreaking ceremony was held on Friday, July 25th, at LBJ Tropical Medical Center to officially commence construction of a new two-story building that will house the Emergency Room (ER), Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and MRI facility.
House Representative Faimealelei A. Allen, who served as the Master of Ceremony, welcomed guests to the event. In attendance were Acting Governor Pulumataala Ae Ae Jr., Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean, members of the Fono, LBJ Medical Centre Board members, cabinet officials, and other esteemed guests. The ceremony began with an invocation delivered by Reverend Lalomauga Pa'au of the Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa (CCCAS), Faga'alu.
In his special remarks, Acting Governor Pulumataala extended heartfelt thanks to the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) for providing the crucial funding that made this project possible. He also congratulated Nanas Company, which has been awarded the contract to carry out the construction. The Acting Governor highlighted the administration's ongoing commitment, together with LBJ management, to recruit medical specialists who will not only serve in the new facility when it is completed but strengthen essential services across the entire medical center. He further commended the dedication and tireless work of LBJ's medical staff and management, expressing gratitude for their service to the people of American Samoa.

LBJ CEO Scott Anesi shared his appreciation for the project finally moving forward through federal funding, noting that this infrastructure will serve as a gateway to the quality healthcare the community needs and has long deserved.
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Senate President Tuaolo offered his blessing for the success of the project and called upon the community to pray for improvements in the healthcare system, so it may better serve the medical needs of all residents.
The ceremony concluded with key leaders participating in the symbolic groundbreaking, marking the official start of construction for the new ER, ICU, and MRI building, a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to modernize and enhance healthcare services in American Samoa.
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