Super PMO drives major reconstruction projects across US Virgin Islands

The Committee on Disaster Recovery, Infrastructure and Planning convened on February 20, 2025, to discuss significant advancements in the rebuilding efforts across the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) following recent disasters. The meeting highlighted the establishment of the Super Project Management Office (SuperPMO) by the Office of Disaster Recovery (ODR), aimed at streamlining recovery processes and enhancing contractor coordination.

The SuperPMO, supported by CH2M Hill and Jacob Solutions, is designed to eliminate bottlenecks in project execution and provide a single point of contact for contractors. Key contracts have already been awarded, including a significant agreement with Suffolk CBNA joint venture for the St. Thomas Education Bridal, which encompasses multiple school additions and renovations. Additionally, a contract was awarded to Consiglie Benton joint venture for the reconstruction of the Charles Howard Medical Complex, now renamed the Donna M. Christian Christensen Medical Complex.

The committee reported ongoing evaluations for various projects, including the St. Croix North Central horizontal bundle, which covers essential infrastructure such as power, water, and wastewater systems. The St. John vertical bundle, which includes health facilities and schools, is also under review. Upcoming solicitations for the St. Thomas health care bundle and educational projects are scheduled for release in March 2025.

The reconstruction of the Wang F. Louis Hospital has faced challenges, with previous solicitations yielding limited bids. The ODR is revising the request for proposals (RFP) based on market feedback, with a new solicitation planned for March 2025. Other hospital projects, including Roy L. Schneider Hospital and Herbert Grigg for the Age, are set for future solicitations in April and June 2025, respectively.

In addition to infrastructure projects, the ODR has taken on programmatic oversight of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Doctor programs through a partnership with the Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority. The Envision Tomorrow program, which focuses on rebuilding storm-damaged homes, has made significant progress, implementing a structured process for assessing eligibility and managing repairs.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue advancing these critical recovery initiatives, ensuring that the USVI is on track for a comprehensive rebuilding effort that addresses both infrastructure and housing needs.