U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS (January 23, 2025)– The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (“WAPA” or the “Authority”) Board of Directors met today for an important session that resulted in the approval of critical project updates, which will continue to shape the future of the territory’s water infrastructure. The board’s decisions focused on improving water quality across the islands.
Authorization of No-Cost Time Extension for SC-02-23 (Hannah’s Rest Rehabilitation Project)
One of the significant actions taken today was the approval of a seven-month no-cost time extension for the Hannah’s Rest Water Rehabilitation Project (Contract # SC-02-23). Originally slated for completion earlier, the project has experienced delays primarily driven by global supply chain disruptions. Materials necessary for completing the project have an estimated lead time of at least four months, followed by an additional two months for installation. As a result, the new contract end date has been moved to July 3, 2025.
Despite these setbacks, the benefits of the project remain clear. Once completed, it will vastly improve water quality, reduce line loss, and enhance system pressure in the Hannah’s Rest community. Additionally, the project will help reduce the frequency of water main breaks, a critical concern for residents. To date, approximately 80% of the work is finished, and with the time extension, the project will be on track to reach full completion.
CEO/Executive Director of the Authority, Karl Knight, expressed optimism for the ongoing progress, “We are making steady progress in enhancing our water infrastructure, one neighborhood at a time. While delays have been challenging, we are confident that this extension will ensure that we deliver a reliable, long-lasting water system for the community of Hannah’s Rest.”
Approval of Change Order for SC-03-23 (Campo Rico Waterline Rehabilitation Project)
In another key decision, the Board unanimously approved a Change Order #2 for the Campo Rico Waterline Rehabilitation Project (Contract # SC-03-23), which will expand the project scope and include a cost increase of $1,617,536.67. This change is necessary to extend the water distribution network and add critical infrastructure such as hydrants and service connections. The expanded scope will now connect existing customers and extend service to new ones, improving the overall accessibility and reliability of the system.
The cost increase and additional scope will extend the project completion date to February 28, 2026. With these adjustments, the Campo Rico project is set to substantially improve water quality, reduce line loss, and help modernize the territory’s aging infrastructure.
Approval of GIS Inventory Assessment Time Extension and Cost Increase for SC-07-23
Another important project update involved the GIS Inventory Assessment (Contract # SC-07-23), which was granted a ten-month time extension and a cost increase of up to $1,531,599.23. The extension and additional funding will allow for the completion of final phases of the project, particularly focusing on generating a more accurate count of field assets. This enhanced inventory will significantly improve operational efficiency, assist with damage assessments, and improve the planning processes for future infrastructure needs.
Moving Forward: Infrastructure Enhancements and Safety Measures
The meeting also included discussions on upcoming projects and operational matters, including the Water Department increasing storage capacity on St. Croix. This aims to ensure a reliable supply for both residential and commercial customers while addressing aging infrastructure as part of a broader master plan.
In response to these challenges, the department has placed orders for new equipment to improve leak detection and pressure assessments. Additionally, new quotes for four bucket trucks are expected to be finalized soon, supporting WAPA's ongoing efforts to strengthen emergency response and service delivery across the territory.
In line with these ongoing improvements, the Board also inquired about safety protocols and year-over-year data related to workplace injuries for December 2024. The WAPA Interim Safety Director, Gerry Simon, provided an update, emphasizing the importance of ongoing safety initiatives as the organization continues to expand its operations.
The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority Communication’s department is committed to reaching, informing, and connecting with the youngest members of the community to the eldest, through meaningful, transparent and effective communication.