Gov’t announces various changes amid dock repair

Government has announced various temporary measures for commuters while noting that ferry services at the Saint Thomas Bay Jetty in Virgin Gorda will be temporarily handled at the Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour Marina from May 1.

Acting Managing Director at the BVI Ports Authority (BVIPA) Alfred A Henley said this is as a result of repair work on the dock, which is expected to be carried out over a period 30 days.

Limited cargo services, he added, will remain at the St Thomas Bay cargo ramp.

Henley stated that, during this period, the following operations will be handled accordingly:

1. All international ferry and pleasure craft clearance during  the  construction period will be diverted  to Jost Van Dyke, West End, Road Town and Gun Creek jetties.

2.West End Station will be open at 7am to facilitate the increased traffic;

3. Her Majesty’s Customs will relax the process and captains will be  required to present passports and other documentation for proper clearance of the vessel;

4. Parking at the Port Authority facility will be encouraged and supported by a complimentary shuttle to and from the marina facilities;

5. Ports Authority personnel will be deployed to both facilities to ensure the smooth handling of passengers arriving via ferry, etc. Covered seating will be erected for marina users during the traveling process.

Works on the ramp will be undertaken in two sections to ensure that cargo operations will continue and that normal procedures are fully enforced.

The dock serves as the main point for entry and will receive upgrades that include reinforcement to the existing jetty.

“The scope of works entail the laying of a wearing slab with steel reinforced concrete on the existing jetty, repairing and replacing bollards, placing new bollards for the cargo ramp and pouring a concrete slab on the entire apron, as well as the installation of lighting on the apron,” said a media release from the Government Information Service.

“Operators are asked to cooperate with BVI Ports Authority to ensure that all services continue in an efficient manner.”