RDA to become permanent body
The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) is transitioning into a permanent organisation, now to be called the Virgin Islands Development Agency (VIDA).
The agency said in a recent release that the shift represents the Government of the Virgin Islands’ long-term commitment to sustainable development, disaster resilience, and infrastructural growth.
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley highlighted the importance of the transition during a press conference held on September 30, where he also discussed the approval of a $100 million loan to support the territory’s development. The Premier further explained that the new agency would implement an Infrastructural Development Plan spanning up to 20 years, ensuring a coherent strategy for the territory’s future.
Since its establishment in 2018, the RDA has been at the forefront of recovery efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. Over the past six years, the agency has overseen critical recovery projects, investing more than $55 million locally and completing 43 initiatives aimed at rebuilding and strengthening the Virgin Islands’ infrastructure. These efforts have been crucial in improving the territory’s disaster preparedness and economic resilience.
The new VIDA will build on the foundation laid by the RDA with an expanded mandate that includes broader economic development strategies.
The agency said these strategies are closely aligned with the National Sustainable Development Plan (NSDP), promoting public-private partnerships, sustainable environmental practices, and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship—a transition that marks a shift towards a more comprehensive approach to development that addresses both infrastructural needs and economic growth.
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This is great if they can continue to get projects done on budget and on time. So far they have a good record and I really hope they keep it up and do not become PWD 2.0. I also hope that majority of the loan funding for infrastructure is done via the RDA/VIDA.
And the leader of the syping and destructive preying mantis dey dey behine ah hee.
A clear illustration the if we are not prepared to fight, we are at the end of our stewardship.
Oh dear – I thought that we were done with him!
PWD is useless now. Retire every employee and shut it down forever.