U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the availability of approximately $80 million through the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program Wednesday, of which $406,000 will go toward stormwater and sewer infrastructure needs in the territory.
The agency will provide funding from both fiscal years 2025 and 2026 totaling $406,000 to U.S. Virgin Islands.
“Stormwater and sewage systems are critical for managing pollution to keep our nation’s waterways clean and support healthy people, economic growth, and thriving ecosystems,” said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Jess Kramer. “This $80 million investment will help states upgrade stormwater management systems to address the threat of aging and inadequate infrastructure.”
“If left unchecked and uncontrolled, discharges pollute the environment and may threaten clean water. This funding helps U.S. Virgin Islands communities upgrade their stormwater and sewage treatment systems, improving the environment and protecting human health,” said Regional Administrator Michael Martucci. “Under President Trump, EPA is at work to deliver clean water to all Americans.”
Stormwater can be a significant source of water pollution and a public health concern. It can collect various pollutants, including trash, chemicals, oils, and dirt/sediment, and convey them to nearby waterways. When mixed with domestic and industrial wastewater in combined sewers, stormwater can also contribute to combined sewer overflows during heavy storm events.
Safely and effectively managing stormwater to reduce pollution before it reaches local waterways is essential. However, the cost to construct, operate, and maintain stormwater infrastructure can be significant, which can strain wastewater systems and their customers, especially in small and financially distressed communities. The agency’s Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program will prioritize projects for small and/or financially distressed communities. Under the existing regulations, state grantees are not required to contribute cost shares for projects located in small and/or financially distressed communities.
