Water customers in affected neighborhoods including Frederiksted town are eligible

ST. CROIX, US VIRGIN ISLANDS - The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (“WAPA” or the “Authority”) will distribute water filters to eligible St. Croix customers in areas identified late last year to have elevated lead and copper levels in their potable water supply. Pitcher and faucet filters will be available from January 18 to 20, between 9 am and 5 pm. Distribution points include the Mall of St. Croix (former Kmart West parking lot, offering both drive-thru and walk-up options) and at the Frederiksted Parking Lot adjacent to Midre Cummings Park (drive-thru only). Managers at the Virgin Islands Housing Authority and the Department of Human Services will deliver filters to their eligible residents and Meals on Wheels participants.

Eligibility for the faucet and pitcher filters will be the same as for the previously distributed $100 water vouchers. Customers must have an active WAPA water account in the impacted neighborhoods and have metered water usage from April-September 2023. Eligible neighborhoods include La Grange, Smithfield, Wheel of Fortune, Stoney Ground, White Lady, Hannah’s Rest, Whim, Williams Delight, Mount Pleasant, Adventure Hill, Paradise, Grove Place, St. George, Estate Diamond (West), Castle Burke, Colquohoun, Mon Bijou, Profit, Barren Spot, Sion Farm, St. John, Montpellier (East), and Strawberry Hill. WAPA water customers in Frederiksted town should note they are now included in the distribution of both the vouchers and filters.

“This program is part of WAPA’s ongoing mission to provide access to clean and safe drinking water.  WAPA fully understands that water is essential,” said Don Gregoire, St. Croix Director of Water. “While positive results in November from the EPA's sampling study showed much lower lead levels than originally reported at the tap, providing filters is part of our clean water action to continue to improve water quality.” Funding for the filters comes from the Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR).

It is important that filter users follow the manufacturer’s directions to ensure the full benefits of the devices. WAPA will continue its ongoing public education campaign by providing video and print information about how to install and use the filters. Customers are urged to get more information and to pre-register for the distribution program at www.cleanwaterusvi.com.

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