US VIRGIN ISLANDS – Speaking on Monday from Government House on St. Thomas, Governor Albert Bryan Jr. said it was appropriate, just days before Thanksgiving, to express his gratitude.
Governor Bryan said he is grateful for the actions of the 35th Legislature, which passed Bill No. 35-0415 during its November 20 session. This important legislation allows the GVI to utilize GARVEE Bonds to address significant transportation infrastructure needs on St. Thomas and St. Croix.
The GARVEE Bond is solely a financial tool that enables the Government of the Virgin Islands to secure upfront funding for critical transportation projects that qualify for federal aid. This debt instrument is backed by annual federal grants designated for transportation infrastructure.
“It’s important to emphasize that this approach does not mean we are taking on additional government debt for development projects,” Governor Bryan said. Instead of waiting each year for federal funding allotments, GARVEE bonds empower the GVI to accelerate the development of essential projects like the second phase of Veterans Drive on St. Thomas and undertake vital work on the roadways in St. Croix.
The new bond issue plans to allocate $20 million for the St. Croix-St. Thomas ferry, $48 million for the second phase of Veterans Drive on St. Thomas, and $28 million for road projects on St. Croix that are eligible for federal aid. Additionally, $6 million will be set aside for a debt service reserve fund to cover issuance costs, and $54 million will go toward refinancing existing GARVEE bonds to achieve present value savings.
Moreover, Governor Bryan announced that he would sign into law $3.5 million to allow the Department of Public Works to conduct emergency road repairs due to recent torrential rains, alongside work on milling and paving the entire St. Croix Airport Road. “We all want to see this vital infrastructure roadway repaved as soon as possible,” he stated.
The Governor thanked the 35th Legislature for their belief in this vision and for their collaboration with the executive branch. “Together, we will continue to make strides toward building a more resilient Virgin Islands,” he said.
Paradise Jam
Governor Bryan announced the triumphant return of Paradise Jam on St. Thomas, marking the 25th year since its inception. He offered a special thank you to founders Neal Holden and Nels Hawkinson of Basketball Travelers, whose dedication has made the annual NCAA Division 1 Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament possible each November in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The event kicked off on Friday, November 22nd, and the Men’s tournament concludes this evening with the crowning of the 2024 champion. The Women’s tournament is set to begin on Thursday, November 28th, and will continue through Saturday, November 30th.
Governor Bryan said he was honored to welcome back two U.S. Virgin Islands basketball legends — Kansas State University Head Coach Jerome Tang and Assistant Coach Jareem Dowling, whose inspiring journeys highlight the power of hard work, dedication and the vibrant culture of the islands.
Sharing heartfelt Thanksgiving wishes, the Governor emphasized the importance of gathering with loved ones, reflecting on blessings, and expressing gratitude for the good in our lives.He encouraged everyone to take a moment to count their blessings, whether it’s family, friends, or the simple pleasures of daily life.
The Governor also highlighted the need for kindness, especially for those facing challenges. “Small acts of generosity can make a big difference in someone’s life,” he noted, urging community members to open their hearts and extend kindness, whether by sharing a meal with those in need or showing compassion to a neighbor.
Holiday Schedule
Announcing the holiday schedule, Governor Bryan said Virgin Islands Government offices will be closed:
- Tuesday, December 24, 2024: Christmas Eve – Executive Branch employees will be granted administrative leave from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, December 25, 2024: Christmas Day Holiday – Closed
- Thursday, December 26, 2024: Boxing Day Holiday – Closed
- Wednesday, January 1, 2025: New Year’s Day Holiday | St. Croix Festival J’ouvert – Closed
- Thursday, January 2, 2025: Crucian Christmas Festival – Food, Arts, and Crafts Fair, employees on the island of St. Croix only will be granted Administrative Leave from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Friday, January 3, 2025: Crucian Christmas Festival – Children’s Parade – Executive Branch employees Territory-Wide will be granted Administrative Leave from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Saturday, January 4, 2025: Crucian Christmas Festival – Adult’s Parade
- Monday, January 6, 2025: Three Kings Day – Closed
- Monday, January 20, 2025: Martin Luther King Jr. Day Holiday – Closed
ADMINISTRATIVE LEAVE ST. CROIX ONLY:
Thursday, January 2, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. to participate in the St. Croix Crucian Christmas Festival Food, Arts and Craft Fair.
ADMINISTRATIVE LEAVE TERRITORY-WIDE:
Friday, January 3, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to participate in the St. Croix Crucian Christmas Festival Children’s Parade.
The Bryan-Roach Administration is investing in the Territory’s people, infrastructure and future through transparency, stabilizing the economy, restoring trust in the government and ensuring that recovery projects are completed as quickly as possible. Visit transparency.vi.gov.
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