Coast Guard Approves Movement Of Essential Vehicles On Barge, But Delayed Service Persists With Only One Barge In Operation

ST. JOHN — The U.S. Cost Guard has approved the movement of essential vehicles on the Captain Vic Car Ferry, the Waste Management Authority said on Tuesday. The approval allowed W.M.A. contractors to conduct a special barge run to address the growing backlog of solid waste.

But Coast Guard said it was notified by the The Island Vic that their carrier would be down for one week while repairs are conducted to its engines; leaving only one barge operational between St. John and Redhook, and causing fuel and food deliveries to be delayed.

“While the backlog has been addressed, the authority’s contractors continue to experience delays as one barge services the essential commercial operations and vehicles between the islands,” said W.M.A. “For that reason, the authority and its contractors have made servicing roadside bins a priority over collection service at the Susannaberg Transfer Station.”

The release added that the Susannaberg Transfer Station will continue to accommodate disposal. However, if the bins at the transfer station are full, residents will be directed to dispose of their waste at the nearest available bin site. No rear loaders will be accepted until further notice, and the transfer station will also continue to accept green waste, scrap, metal and bulk waste, W.M.A. says.

Meanwhile, Senator Tregenza Roach has called on the Virgin Islands Port Authority to find a speedy resolution to the persisting problem. He said St. John residents have been calling his office about the issue and even forwarding photographs of garbage pile-ups at various points on the island. The residents are further stymied in their ability to move easily between St. Thomas and St. John and to transport merchandise.

“That is why I sent a representative to the Port Authority committee meeting held today to address the issue. I would have gone myself if not for the continuing Finance committee meetings which will lead to the adoption of a budget for the Territory,” Mr. Roach said.

The Port Authority held the meeting to receive testimony from existing car ferry companies and Varlack Ventures which is seeking to begin service as a new car ferry operator, but has delayed a decision on the matter pending a full meeting, still to be scheduled, Mr. Roach said.

“The situation appears untenable,” he said. “It needs an immediate resolution on behalf of our St. John residents. I urge the Port Authority to address the matter with the appropriate urgency.”

Feature Image: Car barge traveling to St. John. (Credit: St. John Condos)