Minister for Transportation, Works and Utilities, Honourable Kye M. Rymer has said that his ministry stands firm on its vision of providing a high standard of internationally accepted public infrastructure for the Territory.

Honourable Rymer in remarks at the commissioning of the shuttles for the City of Road Town Park and Ride initiative said the project to improve and beautify the city commenced before his tenure as minister.  He said Government upon taking office recognised the need to continue with the enhancement of the capital, and moved forward with the initiative.

“Over the years, this city project has yielded the installation of palm trees and hedges throughout the city,” Honourable Rymer said, added, “We have quite a number of sidewalks that connect the town and what we are trying to do and what we are going to do is ensure that there is continuity of access to each sidewalk.”

Honourable Rymer stated that works have begun on Administration Drive, the first of three phases of the Road and Sidewalk Improvement Programme for the City of Road Town. This phase he said is expected to include the stretch of road from Banco Popular to the Social Security building.

Acting Director of the Public Works Department, Mr. Jeremy Hodge has also shared that the department’s road and sidewalk improvement programme for the city, will provide consistency of movement for persons, abled or disabled, persons with strollers, wheelchairs, or electric mobility scooters. 

Mr. Hodge said, “Persons with disabilities have difficulties getting on and off of our sidewalks, and there has been complaints.  Also you will notice that there are some sidewalks that are failing, which are trip hazards, so those will be addressed.”

His Excellency the Governor Mr. John Rankin, CMG during the Speech from the Throne in January said Road Town is the central business district and main cruise ship berthing point that attracts heavy traffic to various businesses and attractions daily; and that there is an opportunity, to make the capital more appealing, pedestrian friendly and accessible.

The Government of the Virgin Islands continues to thank the public for its cooperation and patience as extensive road repairs and infrastructural work continues throughout the Territory. 

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Note to editors: 

Photos of Administration Drive sidewalks and current works.