U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS – Government House held its first press briefing of the year on Monday, providing the Virgin Islands community with critical updates on infrastructure projects, sustainable energy initiatives, and the continued modernization of government services.
Honoring Black History Month
At the start of the briefing, Government House Director of Communications Richard Motta Jr. acknowledged the significance of Black History Month, reminding residents that “Black history is Virgin Islands history.” As the community prepares for Virgin Islands History Month in March, the Bryan-Roach Administration reaffirms its commitment to honoring the past while striving for a future rooted in progress, justice, and opportunity for all.
Infrastructure Progress: East Airport Road Bridge Opens, Mahogany Road Rehabilitation Moves Forward
As part of the administration’s ongoing commitment to improving the Territory’s roads and bridges, Governor Bryan joined Department of Public Works officials and project partners this morning to celebrate the reopening of the East Airport Road Bridge on St. Croix. This milestone follows several other critical road improvement projects underway across the Territory, including enhancements to East and West Airport Roads leading to Henry Rohlsen Airport, the Route 669 bridge near the Agriculture Fairgrounds, and the Ethel McIntosh Memorial Drive in Frederiksted.
Additionally, work on the long-anticipated rehabilitation of the Ethel McIntosh Memorial Dr. (Mahogany Rd.) is set to begin, with Marco St. Croix awarded the $17.75 million contract funded by GARVEE bonds. The project will include resurfacing, drainage improvements, and environmentally sustainable enhancements to ensure long-term durability.
A Greener Future: Expanding Electric Vehicle (EV) Access
Taking another step toward a cleaner and more energy-efficient Virgin Islands, the Government has signed a Letter of Intent with TJ Ocean Auto and Metro Motors to expand access to electric vehicles (EVs) and establish local service facilities.
This initiative, supported by federal funding secured through the Virgin Islands Energy Office, directly addresses two key challenges—limited availability of EVs and a lack of local servicing options—making EV ownership more practical for residents.
“This partnership is a game-changer,” said Motta. “By making electric vehicles more accessible and serviceable right here in the Territory, we are paving the way for a future where Virgin Islanders can save on fuel costs, reduce emissions, and embrace sustainable transportation.”
The Bryan-Roach Administration remains committed to modernizing transportation, reducing energy costs, and increasing the Territory’s self-reliance in sustainable energy solutions.
Modernizing Government: Launch of VI Quick File for Online Tax Filing
In a significant step toward streamlining government services, the Virgin Islands Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has officially launched VI Quick File, an online tax filing portal designed to make filing income taxes easier, faster, and more convenient.
The new system allows taxpayers to upload completed 2024 Individual Income Tax Returns, submit extension requests electronically, and make payments—all from the convenience of their home or office. This follows other successful digital government initiatives, such as the Bureau of Motor Vehicles’ online registration system.
“With VI Quick File, taxpayers no longer have to deal with long lines and cumbersome paperwork,” Motta said. “This is a major step forward in our efforts to modernize government services and make them more user-friendly for all Virgin Islanders.”
Taxpayers can request a registration PIN by emailing oit_register@irb.gov.vi and then visit https://income-tax.bir.vi.gov to complete their registration and upload tax documents. Governor Bryan commended BIR Director Joel Lee and his team for this innovation, urging residents to take full advantage of this new digital service.
View the Government House Press Briefing for February 3, 2025 in its entirety here.
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