Long-delayed plans to build a new sewage system in Cane Garden Bay are back on track after Connect Enterprises Limited signed a $3,785,274.55 contract to carry out “Phase Two” of the project, government announced.
The new phase aims to connect homes and businesses to a sewage treatment plant that was completed in July 2022 under a nearly-$1.8 million contract awarded to the United States-based company Toshiba Water Solutions in 2019.
Opposition member Mitch Turnbull (R-D2), who represents Cane Garden Bay in the House of Assembly, said during the Feb. 10 signing ceremony that the new contract was originally awarded to Connect Enterprises four years ago.
But the project, he said, had been delayed due to lack of funding.
“After four years of tireless effort since [the contract award], I am proud and elated that we have finally arrived at this critical stage,” Mr. Turnbull said, adding, “For many years, the people of Cane Garden Bay have endured the inconvenience, health hazards and the constant overflow of sewage from the 36 pump stations installed years ago from bridge to bridge — a system that exceeds even the number of pump stations that were on the entire island of St. Thomas.”
Contract specs
Under the contract, Connect Enterprises and its partner Cuberoot will be charged with installing about 4,500 feet of gravity main sewer lines as well as pumping mains, a new pump station adjacent to the treatment plant, three smaller pump stations, and two lift stations, according to government.
Additionally, the project will include more than 42 manholes and the restoration of any roads and sidewalks damaged during construction, government stated.
Not invited
The media and public weren’t invited to the contract-signing, but the government broadcast it on Facebook and issued a press release afterwards.
During the ceremony, Communications and Works Minister Kye Rymer acknowledged the longstanding delays but promised the project will alleviate the community’s sewage concerns.
“We’re hoping that with the completion of this project, residents in the area of Cane Garden Bay from the Hodge’s Gas Station to De Wedding [Bar and Restaurant] would be able to flush with confidence for this new sewage plant,” he said.
Mr. Rymer also thanked Premier and Finance Minister Natalio “Sowande” Wheatley — who also attended the ceremony — for making funds available for the project.
“Within 18 months, we are hoping that this will be finished and we’ll be able to put another check mark for another completion of infrastructural works here in the territory, after when there will continue to be more, I’m sure,” Mr. Rymer said. “But we will take them one step at a time with the resources that we have available.”
D-2 contractors
Also at the ceremony were Connect Enterprises owner Clive George and representative Chassidy George, who said they are committed to delivering a high-quality sewerage network that meets the area’s needs.
“As proud born and bred Virgin Islanders and residents of the Second District, which includes Cane Garden Bay, this opportunity means so much more to us than just a contract,” Ms. George said. “This is our home, our heart and a community that serves as a vital tourism hub for the territory.”
The ministry did not answer questions from the Beacon about the procurement process for the project.
