Premier announces $500K beautification grant for BVITB

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has unveiled a $500,000 grant for the BVI Tourist Board to fund a territory-wide beautification project aimed at enhancing the territory’s appeal for the upcoming tourism high season.

During a press conference on Tuesday, November 26, Wheatley revealed that the Ministry of Tourism would collaborate with the Tourist Board to carry out the beautification drive.

“I directed the Ministry of Tourism to collaborate with the BVI Tourist Board on a beautification drive as we get ready to welcome visitors during our tourism high-season and as we ourselves get ready for our own festive season. The Government of the Virgin Islands, through the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sustainable Development, is pleased to announce a $500,000 grant to the BVI Tourist Board for a territory-wide beautification project,” Wheatley said.

He explained that a private contractor would be hired to carry out the project in order to reduce the administrative burden on the Tourist Board.

The Premier emphasized that the beautification project was a direct response to concerns about the territory’s appearance and the need to ensure both residents and tourists can enjoy a safe and aesthetically pleasing environment.

This announcement follows recent statements by Former Deputy Premier Lorna Smith, who has repeatedly called for action to improve the state of the territory.

Speaking in the House of Assembly, Smith highlighted the need for immediate action to clean up areas frequented by visitors, particularly Jost Van Dyke and Anegada. She noted that while Virgin Gorda maintains a clean and tidy appearance, islands like Jost Van Dyke and Anegada “leave a lot to be desired.”

Smith described the presence of derelict vehicles and general neglect in these areas as “unacceptable,” particularly with an expected influx of tourists.

“The BVI is one of the most beautiful countries on earth by everybody’s admission, but we have to keep the BVI beautiful by cleaning it up,” Smith stated.

She also expressed concern that visitors to the territory were encountering “a dirty, unkempt, untidy country,” and stressed that recent heavy rains should not be used as an excuse for the current state of affairs.