Sen. Diane T. Capehart has scheduled a virtual meeting with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and local agencies to discuss new developments regarding the contamination of the water infrastructure on St. Croix that affects the potable water distribution system. Sen. Capehart appeals for further investigation to assess the elevated levels at the sample locations.
The St. Croix senator will host a platform for herself and colleagues to discuss the level of contamination, EPA’s strategy for public education, testing, mitigation, and its involvement with other local entities such as the Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR), Water and Power Authority (WAPA), and the Department of Health (DOH).
The St. Croix senator continues to reach out to the Department of Health commissioner to discuss the effects of lead and encourages public education. She further encourages DPNR to enforce its regulatory powers in support of the EPA.
WAPA has underinvested in the water infrastructure of this territory for way too long, putting St. Croix at risk. Ductile iron pipes with copper connectors, water main breaks, contaminations and failing wastewater management systems continue to threaten the safety and security of the residents of St. Croix.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides a funding solution as the legislation’s $55 billion investment represents the largest investment in drinking water, wastewater, water reuse, conveyance and water storage infrastructure in American history, including dedicated funding to replace older copper lines and address the dangerous chemicals.
Capehart expresses a sense of urgency to all the involved entities as she advocates the legislative body to host a Committee of the Whole meeting. She anticipates a discussion of the impact thus far; the agencies plan to establish and provide a sustainable water system.
As legislators, “It is our duty to advocate on behalf of our residents on matters that improve their quality of life. I cannot grasp the impact of how many residents were affected as the true effects will not be available until many years later.”
For more information, or to contact the Office of Sen. Diane T. Capehart, call 712-2335.
