NWC Breaks Ground on $148 Million Water Improvement Project in Santa Cruz

The National Water Commission (NWC) has officially broken ground on a $148 million pipeline replacement project in Santa Cruz, St. Elizabeth, aimed at improving water supply and service reliability for residents in the area.

The Santa Cruz By-Pass Mains Replacement Project, launched on Thursday by Minister of Water, Environment and Climate Change Matthew Samuda, forms part of the broader Santa Cruz Water Supply Improvement Programme. The initiative will replace an aging three-inch cast iron pipeline, which has been in service for more than 50 years, with a larger and more durable six-inch ductile iron pipeline.

According to the NWC, the upgraded infrastructure will significantly improve water pressure, flow consistency, and overall system performance for approximately 1,200 customers, including residents of Santa Cruz By-Pass, New River, Brighton, Friendship Street, Doctor Rock, and surrounding communities.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Minister Samuda described the project as a major investment in the future of Santa Cruz, noting that the aging pipes have outlived their useful lifespan. He expressed confidence that residents will begin to see the benefits of the upgraded system once the project is completed.

NWC Project Engineer Neville Green said the new pipeline will allow the commission to safely increase system pressure, reduce recurring pipe bursts, and cut down on water losses caused by leaks. He added that the project will help ensure more treated water reaches customers instead of being lost through damaged infrastructure.

The project is scheduled for completion in November 2026, with the NWC also committing to the restoration of affected roadways after construction. Officials say the investment underscores the Government's continued focus on water security, climate resilience, and sustainable community development.