VIWMA WORKING TO RESTORE WASTEWATER SERVICES AFFECTED BY INCLEMENT WEATHER
(U.S. Virgin Islands) - The Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority (VIWMA) crews and contractors are actively working to restore services to the community after the LBJ Pump Station on St. Croix went offline due to mechanical failure, and a sewer line between Banco Popular Altona Branch and the Cancryn Pump Station collapsed on St. Thomas. Both incidents, resulting from heavy rainfall, occurred on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, and have adversely affected both the above-ground (pump station) and underground (sewer line) wastewater systems. These services are vital to the community, and every effort is being made to maintain them.
On St. Thomas, pump trucks are operating around the clock to manage overflowing manholes in the affected area. The team is also working on installing a bypass or pump-around system to minimize the duration of service interruptions. On St. Croix, while the pump station remains offline, crews are preparing an auxiliary pump to temporarily restore central operations for the community as efficiently as possible.
Sewer line issues, whether due to collapses or blockages, along with pump station failures—such as the malfunctioning pump—are frequently caused by debris from the storm system and illegally dumped Fats, Oils, and Greases (FOGs), which negatively impact the aging sewer collection system. “Interim repairs are being conducted to keep the system operational until a more permanent solution can be implemented, which involves prudent replacements in the future. Funding for replacing the LBJ Sewershed is now available, and the same will soon apply to Cancryn,” said VIWMA Interim Executive Director, Daryl Griffith.
As repairs progress, there may be occasional sewage overflow at manholes in the impacted areas. Both motorists and pedestrians are advised to be cautious, as sewage runoff may contain contaminants or pollutants that are harmful to human health. Residents should avoid areas with sewage water runoff (such as gutters, puddles, manholes, and drainage basins) or any locations that appear discolored or emit foul odors.
VIWMA expresses gratitude to the community for their patience and understanding during this time. We recognize the inconvenience this situation may cause and appreciate your cooperation.
For more information, contact the Division of Education and Communications Management at 340-474-2811 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Stay connected with us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn for updates.
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11-21-2024
