BergerWorld: 4th Quarter 2004

The British Virgin Islands is an archipelago of 60 islands in the Caribbean, each with its own diverse character and charm. These islands have a flourishing tourist industry which has provided jobs for many immigrants, and in the past 20 years, the population has doubled. To accommodate this growing population, the government of the British Virgin Islands selected the Berger Group to develop a five phase water sector master plan, prepare designs and supervise the construction of improvements on the islands.

Except for a few tropical springs on Tortola, the British Virgin Islands essentially rely on underground wells and rainwater for fresh water, and water issues are of key importance to the area's economy and environment. During the first stage of the assignment, Berger conducted a number of studies on the principal islands of Tortola, Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke to identify current and future water needs and evaluate the environmental issues involved in wastewater treatment. Using this information, Berger prepared a comprehensive $134 million master plan, including more than 44 wastewater collection, treatment and disposal projects. The Team then prepared designs for the East End and Long Look sewage collection and treatment systems and supervised the construction. The development of these improved wastewater treatment systems will provide residents and visitors with an efficient and environmentally-friendly disposal system.