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PROJECT COMPLETION EXPECTED AT END OF THIS MONTH

           The second phase of a water pressure management project aimed at improving water quality and reliability, while reducing line loss on St. Croix, is expected to be completed this month. The contractor, GEC, has two remaining water main tie-ins to perform along with paving of the trenched areas.

            The objective of the project, which included the installation of more than 7,500 feet of 24-inch waterlines and the implementation of four pressure reducing stations, was to reduce water pressure in over-pressurized locations and boost water pressure at other locales to ensure consistent water supply. The new lines replaced aged and corroded ductile iron pipes which had long become obsolete, and contributed to the discoloration of potable water. The improved water service will be observed in Beeston Hill, Contentment, Golden Rock, and Catherine’s Rest.

            Although the project achieved 90% completion in March 2019, it experienced significant delays as the water system faced operational and storage challenges last year. Work resumed in November, and will completed at the end of this month. The contractor is preparing to pave the work areas during the week of February 17, returning road conditions to their original state. 

            The remaining tie-ins, along Contentment Road, and near Breezez Bar & Restaurant, will be scheduled on weekends to minimize water service interruption to schools, government offices, and nearby businesses.

            The contract for the second phase of the project totaled $3.2 million. Work began on the project in March 2017.

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The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority is an autonomous agency of the Virgin Islands Government which produces and distributes electricity and drinking water to residential and commercial customers in the territory. WAPA was created by the Fifth Legislature of the Virgin Islands in 1964 through Act No. 1248. Today, WAPA generates electrical power at production plants on St. Thomas and St. Croix, and distributes electrical service through smart grids to customers on St. Thomas, St. Croix, St. John, Hassel Island, and Water Island. Potable water is distributed to almost 13,000 customers through water lines and standpipes. WAPA also has the responsibility of installing and maintaining street lights.