Brewers Bay Bliss: Community Centre restored after 8 years

Eight years after Hurricanes Irma and Maria left it battered and unusable, the Brewers Bay Community Centre is finally ready to reopen its doors — bringing a wave of hope and excitement to the small seaside community.

Health and Social Development Minister Vincent Wheatley announced in the House of Assembly this week that refurbishment works on the long-awaited facility are now “substantially completed” and that the official handover, naming, and opening ceremony will take place this Friday, September 19, 2025.

“As part of the ceremony, we will officially rename the facility the George W. Christopher Community Centre, in recognition of the late Mr. Christopher’s contribution to that wonderful community of Brewers Bay,” Minister Wheatley said.

The reopening marks a major milestone for Brewers Bay, where residents have been without a proper gathering space since 2017. Community centres across the Virgin Islands were hard-hit by the devastating hurricanes, leaving many neighbourhoods without critical spaces for meetings, hurricane shelter, after-school activities, and celebrations.

Second District Representative Melvin “Mitch” Turnbull, who has long advocated for the restoration of the centre, welcomed the news but pressed for assurances that the building will be fully functional from day one.

“My question, on a serious note, is in regards to furnishing,” Turnbull said, pointing out that Cane Garden Bay’s centre opened a year ago and is still waiting for key items. “I’m just wondering how soon after we open this on Friday that we will have the refrigerator, chairs, and all the things that are necessary.”

Minister Wheatley assured him that preparations have been made to avoid unnecessary delays.

“The impression I have is that it should happen soon after — right after,” he said. “I will ensure that things are in place by Friday so that you don’t have to come back to ask this question.”

The minister also extended thanks to the Ministry of Finance, the Permanent Secretary of Health and Social Development, architect Mr. Adams, system engineers, and Ian K Construction and Trucking Services for their role in bringing the project to completion.

But he saved special praise for the people of Brewers Bay.

“Their support and endurance have been critical in getting us to this milestone,” Wheatley said. “This marks a significant moment for that community — bringing a centre back into service after being out of use since 2017 and ensuring that the people of Brewers once again have access to a proper facility.”

For residents, Friday’s ceremony will be more than just the opening of a building. It will be a moment of restoration, of reclaiming a space that has always been at the heart of their community life.