August 29, 2005 – Fortunately, cruise visitors are not arriving in Frederiksted yet.
Not only would they have been faced with a torn-up Strand Street project this weekend, but they would also be faced with the site of raw sewage pouring into the ocean.
According to a press release from the Department of Planning and Natural Resources, a break in the Lagoon Street Pump Station's force main line has caused discharge at a point west of St. Patrick's School, into the Lagoon Street Gut and finally into the waters off of the Frederiksted Public Beach.
The Waste Management Authority reportedly is addressing the problem, but as of Monday morning, no progress was reported.
DPNR Commissioner Dean C. Plaskett advises the public to avoid the areas around the Lagoon Street Gut, Frederiksted Public Beach and Ann E. Abramson Pier. DPNR is also advising that children and adults with compromised immune systems should avoid the areas and impacted beaches. Standing or running water in these areas may contain contaminants or pollutants harmful to human health. DPNR will continue to monitor the impacted area.
For information regarding water quality, call the Division of Environmental Protection at 773-1082.
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