UPDATED PUBLIC NOTICE FROM THE VIRGIN ISLANDS WASTE MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY
(U.S. Virgin Islands) — The Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority (VIWMA) is issuing this update to keep the community informed as we continue responding to ongoing underground sewer line failures across the Territory. We know these conditions remain deeply disruptive for residents and businesses, and we want to again acknowledge the frustration, inconvenience, and health concerns these issues continue to create.
Our pipelines are way past the end of their service life, leading to sudden collapses and blockages in multiple areas at once. While these challenges have developed over decades, we understand that their impact is being felt right now, in real time, by families and businesses. Addressing these conditions remains one of our top priorities, and we are committed to staying on the ground until stability is restored.
As part of our ongoing response, VIWMA teams are conducting repairs at the Cancryn Pump Station on St. Thomas and the Power Boyd Pump Station on St. John. These efforts, combined with limited resources, continue to place added pressure on our operations. We are actively working to address those issues.
Our crews continue to be deployed daily, focusing first on the most urgent and high-risk situations—particularly those affecting public health, safety, and heavily populated neighborhoods. With multiple issues occurring simultaneously, we must continue taking a strategic, prioritized approach to ensure that the areas of greatest need receive immediate attention.
At the same time, long-term solutions are already in motion. Contracts are in place for a comprehensive, territory-wide replacement of aging sewer infrastructure. This major investment will begin in the coming months and represents a permanent, forward-looking solution to the very problems we are confronting today.
To everyone who has been affected: we hear you, we understand the hardship these conditions continue to cause, and we remain fully committed to restoring normalcy as quickly as possible. Your patience and resilience during this challenging period are deeply appreciated, and your partnership continues to guide our work as we stabilize the system and build a more reliable future for the Virgin Islands.
VIWMA remains committed to protecting public health, safeguarding the environment, and improving the quality of life for all Virgin Islanders. Thank you for your continued understanding and support as we work through both the immediate challenges and the long-term infrastructure needs of our Territory.
Residents are encouraged to continue reporting active sewer issues by calling 340 715 9100 (St. Thomas) or 340 712 4962 (St. Croix) or emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. so they can be logged, tracked, and addressed. Please stay connected with VIWMA on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn for ongoing updates.
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06-04-2026