U.S. Virgin Islands — Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. today announced his administration’s strong support for a legislative proposal that would authorize the use of $5 million in available funding through the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation to jumpstart renovations at the Randall “Doc” James Racetrack on St. Croix. The Legislature is scheduled to take up the measure Tuesday, Oct. 7.
The $5 million authorization would allow the administration to begin immediate repairs to the racetrack’s running surface and paddock area. These are essential upgrades needed to safely restart horse racing on the island and breathe new life into a tradition that has been stalled for far too long.
“For too long, the people of St. Croix have been waiting to hear the sound of hooves pounding once again at the Randall Doc James Racetrack,” Bryan said. “Horse racing was slowed by negotiations and agreements that did not deliver what had been expected. That reality left the industry in limbo, the track idle, and the community understandably frustrated. This administration is committed to breaking that cycle of delays. By supporting this measure, we are making clear that we are ready to act. Horse racing is not just a sport on St. Croix. It is a tradition, a livelihood, and a source of pride for our community.”
In 2016, agreements were rushed forward that were supposed to deliver modern racetrack facilities and new investment. Instead, those contracts became mired in disputes and left St. Croix without racing for nearly a decade. Gov. Bryan emphasized that his administration has worked from the beginning to move past that period of uncertainty and chart a path forward.
“Resolving the challenges created in past years has not been easy,” Bryan said. “Leadership is about taking responsibility and driving solutions. By identifying available funds, placing this proposal before the Legislature, and making clear that we are ready to move, we are demonstrating that this administration is determined to restore horse racing. Horsemen, trainers, owners, and fans deserve more than words. They deserve action.”
Commissioner Vincent Roberts of Sports, Parks and Recreation said his department is prepared to begin work immediately once the measure is approved.
“This authorization will allow us to address the most urgent needs, making the racetrack surface safe and functional and bringing the paddock up to standard,” Roberts said. “It is the first step in restoring an industry that has deep cultural and economic significance for St. Croix and the Virgin Islands.”
Bryan underscored that the initiative is about more than repairing a racetrack. It is about restoring faith.
“We know the horse racing community has grown frustrated by years of promises without progress,” Bryan said. “This measure is proof that we are serious about delivering results. By moving forward and investing in the future, we are signaling that horse racing will return to St. Croix. This is not talk. This is action.”
The Bryan-Roach administration urged the Legislature to approve the measure on Oct. 7 so work can begin without delay.
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Caption: Vincent Roberts, left, commissioner of the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation, Arol Abel, center, the department’s territorial disaster recovery specialist, and Sen. at Large Angel Bolques observe the paddock area of the Randall “Doc” James Racetrack in October.