The Ministry of Communications and Works is set to receive 15.92% of the total budget or approximately seventy-four million, nine hundred and fifty thousand dollars ($74,950,000) to fund a variety of infrastructural development projects set out in the 2024 budget.

Premier and Minister of Finance Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley in his 2024 Budget Address delivered under the theme, “Planning, Priorities & Progress: Building a Sustainable Nation” stated that the allocation for the Ministry is comprised of $54.57 million in recurrent expenditure and $20.38 million for development.

Premier Wheatley gave a synopsis on the various projects that the funds for development will go towards, including development of the air and sea ports in the Territory, road network infrastructure upgrades, water and sewage network upgrades, and renovations to buildings that house the staff of Water and Sewage Department, Public Works Department and Fire and Rescue Service.

Honourable Dr. Wheatley said, “For our industry to continue growing, it needs the supporting infrastructure. The upgrade and expansion of the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport to handle increased passenger arrivals and larger aircraft that are capable of bringing in visitors from further distances, is critical to the further development of our tourism industry.”

The Minister of Finance added that the construction of the new West End Ferry Terminal will make a tremendous contribution to boosting the Territory’s tourist arrivals and creating business opportunities across the islands more so in the western part of the Territory. These projects he said must be prioritised.

Premier Wheatley said, “We are moving forward with plans to expand the airport. Informed by the results of the recent visioning meeting with stakeholders, $3 million has been allocated for development projects at the international airport to improve facilities, enhance capacity, safety, efficiency, create jobs and attract visitors.”

The Ministry of Communications and Works ensures the continued development and maintenance of public infrastructure in keeping with international standards so that public utilities are reliable and affordable in support of an enhanced community life for every resident and visitor in the Virgin Islands.