Fig. 1: Map of the Queen Street Underground Electrical Project area, highlighting the first phase of construction between Company Cross Street and Market Street (Torve Gade) in Christiansted Town, St. Croix.
ST. CROIX, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS (July 21, 2026) — The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (“WAPA” or “the Authority”) advises the public that construction on the Queen Street (Feeder 1A) Underground Electrical Project will begin on Monday, July 27, 2026. The project, initially anticipated to begin in May, has completed the necessary coordination and preparations and is now ready to move into the construction phase.
The $5.3 million FEMA-funded project will replace overhead electrical infrastructure along Queen Street with a new underground electrical system designed to improve service reliability and strengthen the grid against severe weather. Funded through FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), established following Hurricanes Irma and Maria, the project is part of ongoing efforts to enhance the reliability and resilience of the territory's electrical system. Haugland Virgin Islands will serve as the contractor, with work beginning near the Christiansted Cemetery and progressing east toward the Christiansted Fort parking lot.
To safely complete the project, construction will occur Monday through Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and will advance in phases. Beginning July 27, the first phase will require the closure of Queen Street between Company Cross Street and Market Street (Torve Gade). Westbound traffic will be detoured north onto Market Street, west along Company Street, south on Company Cross Street, and back onto Queen Street. Motorists are encouraged to use caution, follow posted detours, and obey traffic control personnel while traveling through the area.
As work progresses from block to block, WAPA asks motorists to remove vehicles parked within active construction zones before work reaches their area. Vehicles remaining in closed sections may be towed at the owners’ expense. The Authority also requests that abandoned or inoperable vehicles along Queen Street be removed as soon as possible to support safe and efficient construction.
Businesses will remain open throughout the project, and pedestrian access to homes and commercial properties will be maintained, although roadside parking may be temporarily limited near active work areas.
No planned electrical service interruptions are anticipated during this initial phase of construction. If future phases require temporary outages, affected customers will receive advance notice through WAPA's communication channels, including WAPA alerts.
The project is expected to continue into early 2027 and represents a significant investment in modernizing St. Croix's electrical infrastructure. WAPA appreciates the patience and cooperation of residents, businesses, and motorists as this important initiative moves forward.
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.