U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS – As part of a comprehensive initiative to breathe new life into the U.S. Virgin Islands’ town centers, Governor Albert Bryan Jr. today announced $1 million in funding aimed at revitalizing downtown Charlotte Amalie, Christiansted, and Frederiksted. The Governor’s announcement is part of the administration’s ongoing strategy to bolster economic activity, strengthen the cultural fabric of the islands, and address long-standing community concerns.
“Downtown development is a priority for the administration, and we are actively pushing solutions to revitalize our towns,” Governor Bryan said during his weekly press briefing. “From our proposed abandoned and derelict buildings legislation to our renewal efforts on Main Street, Veterans Drive, Hospital Street, and Frederiksted Jazz, we are committed to rebuilding and reimagining the heart of our communities.”
This planned funding initiative includes $750,000 in grants to be awarded to the St. Thomas Chamber of Commerce, Our Town Frederiksted, and the Christiansted Retail & Restaurant Association (CRRA). Each organization will receive $250,000 to organize events and activities that will enhance after-hours economic activity. The funding is designed to support both traditional events and introduce new opportunities for community engagement and growth.
“These planned grants will enable our organizations to reinvigorate downtown areas, continuing beloved activities like Jump-Up, Sunset Jazz, and Miracle on Main Street, while also providing the resources to develop new, innovative experiences for residents and visitors alike,” said Governor Bryan.
The Governor also pointed out that this planned funding is a key part of the Bryan-Roach administration’s broader strategy to tackle challenges that have hindered downtown development. Central to this is a legislative proposal submitted by the Governor to the 35th Legislature, which seeks to address the ongoing issue of abandoned and derelict buildings.
In addition to the planned downtown revitalization funding, Governor Bryan also announced a significant commitment to the 25th Anniversary of the Taste of St. Croix. The administration has planned to allocate an additional $300,000 to relaunch St. Croix’s Food and Wine Week in 2025. This event will spotlight local culinary talent alongside world-renowned chefs, reinforcing the territory’s position as a premier food and tourism destination.
“This funding is part of our larger vision to not only restore but elevate our downtowns and drive economic growth across the Virgin Islands,” Governor Bryan remarked. “We are committed to making sure that St. Croix’s Food and Wine Week, and all our downtown activities, are successful and beneficial for our community.”
Governor Bryan’s downtown revitalization initiative is designed to stimulate growth, foster community pride, and attract visitors to the territory’s historic town centers. The planned funding and the administration’s comprehensive approach, including the proposed legislation on abandoned properties, demonstrate a commitment to revitalizing the Virgin Islands for both present and future generations.
For more details on this planned funding and upcoming initiatives, including the legislative proposal on abandoned buildings, stay tuned to further announcements from Government House.
