FEMA announces $989 million for STX wastewater system

The Federal Emergency Management Agency on Friday announced a $989 million obligation toward making a more resilient wastewater system on St. Croix.

“We welcome the opportunity to work with the Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority to transform St. Croix’s wastewater collection, transport and sewage system into a resilient infrastructure that will serve the community of St. Croix for decades to come,” said Kristen Hodge, FEMA’s U.S. Virgin Islands recovery director, in a press release.

According to a Government House press release issued over the weekend, the funding will go toward a “comprehensive overhaul of the majority of St. Croix’s wastewater sewer lines and the reconstruction of 14 crucial pump stations.” Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. stated that FEMA’s commitment is “a clear indication of the faith placed in our collective ability to fortify St. Croix against future natural disasters.”

“We are poised to revamp our wastewater systems bringing them in line with industry standards promising resilience and reliability for years to come,” he stated. Disaster Recovery Office Director Adrienne Williams-Octalien called the funding a critical step forward in the territory’s efforts to rebuild “stronger and smarter.”