Virgin Islands Public Works details bridge, ferry and road plans, cites staffing shortfalls

The Virgin Islands Department of Public Works told the Legislature's Committee on Housing, Transportation and Telecommunications on Feb. 28 that it expects multiple bridge and road projects to be completed this year and next, will begin trials of a new inter-island ferry ahead of U.S. Coast Guard inspections, and faces an operational strain after losing about 30 employees in key divisions over the past 12 months.

The department’s testimony to the committee, given by Commissioner Derek Gabriel, outlined project timelines and procurement steps for major infrastructure work across St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John, and described ongoing efforts to improve cemetery facilities. Gabriel said the department will publish a roadside contractor schedule within 30 days to increase public visibility of vegetation-control work.

"We are making significant strides in road rehabilitation, drainage improvements, bridge construction, and public transportation programs," Commissioner Derek Gabriel said in testimony. He cited recent bridge reopenings and ongoing contracts managed in coordination with federal partners.

Most important details

- Bridges and roads: The department said the permanent bridge on East Airport Road opened Feb. 3, 2025, and a temporary Route 669 bridge reopened Feb. 14, 2025. Work on other bridges (including Altona Lagoon and Queen Mary Highway) continues; one remaining bridge project is expected to finish by September 2025. A notice to proceed for Ethel McIntosh Memorial Drive (Macintosh Drive) was issued Jan. 27, 2025; that rehabilitation is expected to finish by September 2026. The Clifton Hill…