Relief for commuters sailing to and from Trellis Bay, Beef Island is on the horizon as a contract was signed on 11th June, to construct the Trellis Bay Welcome Centre.

The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA), on behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands, signed a contract with No Limit Construction Services in the amount of two hundred and seventy-one thousand, two hundred seventy-nine dollars and sixty-seven cents (USD $271,279.67).

The contract commences the construction of a one-storey open air reinforced concrete structure with a concrete roof. The building will provide shelter from the elements for 50 persons and seating for 20 persons of which seven are ADA compliant. ADA compliance refers to ensuring that facilities, services, and programs are accessible to individuals with disabilities.

The project has a scheduled duration of three months and is anticipated to be completed by 1st October, 2024.

This contract represents phase one of a broader development for the area to enhance aesthetics and improve the overall guest and commuter experience. To that end, RDA Chief Executive Officer Mr. Anthony McMaster said, “We have to look beyond just the structure itself, but we have to look at the entire area. At the RDA, we do have a master plan for the entire space.”

Jr Minister for Tourism Honourable Luce Hodge Smith was present at the contract signing ceremony.  In an invited comment Hon. Hodge Smith said, “The Trellis Bay Welcome Centre will serve as a hub to facilitate the guest experience for both residents and visitors alike as the Territory enhances its Tourism product. With an October completion date, the facility will be ready to serve patrons in time for the upcoming season as greater emphasis is being placed on event tourism.”

In support of the project, District Eight Representative, Honourable Marlon Penn said that the “people of the Greater East – Districts Eight and Nine”, will be comfortable while patronizing the new facility. He also noted the increase in potential users, as the numbers of ferry passengers traversing Trellis Bay has increased exponentially since the ferry company introduced more regular services.

Minister for Health and Social Development and District Nine Representative, Honourable Vincent Wheatley said, “I too am pleased to be at this signing today. This facility serves more than just tourism; it serves our people and it sends the right message to the Tourism sector that we are serious about Tourism.  I thank the RDA for their continued high standard in delivering projects, and I look forward to this project being completed.”

Owner of No Limit Construction Rajah Smith said the project is relatively small and that he and his team “will definitely do our best and make sure it is something that all of us [can] be proud of.”

Managing Director of the BVI Airports Authority Mr. Kurt Menal in his remarks shared, “The condition of Trellis Bay is not at the standard that we would like to complement the airport, so we think this is a step in the right direction towards the overall master plan that [CEO Anthony McMaster] spoke of. It is really an easy partnership for us, and we look forward to the fruits.”

Product Manager with the BVI Tourist Board (BVITB) Mr. Melville Lettsome thanked the RDA for taking on the project on behalf of the BVITB and for ensuring a facility will be built that caters to the comfort of guests.

This structure will also house adequate restroom facilities that will be ADA Compliant, and per the approved detailed drawings, the contractor will also install two water storage tanks.

The June 11th contract signing was also attended by senior public officials including the Deputy Secretary in the Premier’s Office Dr. Lavon Chalwell-Brewley, along with RDA Director of Programme Delivery Mrs. Shaina Smith-Archer, RDA Project Manager Ms. Alicia Joseph, RDA Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist Mrs. Tifanie Robinson, RDA Community Liaison Officer Ms. April Glasgow, and BVI Airports Authority’s Director of Maintenance and Engineering Mr. Ronnie Lettsome.