Rehabilitation works on Old Admin Building commences
Rehabilitation works on the Old Administration Building on Main Street, Tortola, have commenced following initial delays due to Tropical Storm Ernesto.
The Deputy Governor’s Office announced on Thursday that the first phase of the project will focus on rehabilitating the building’s front façade. This includes replacing certain structural supports and metallic features to enhance safety for both pedestrians and motor vehicles.
Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Deputy Governor, Sharleen DaBreo-Lettsome, emphasized the project’s importance, highlighting the building’s historical significance.
“The Old Administration Building on Main Street represents a vital period in the history of the Virgin Islands and the Public Service and we must do whatever is possible to maintain the integrity of these historical structures. The Old Administration Building provided a solid foundation for some of the Public Service’s earliest days and we must do whatever is necessary to preserve the history that these walls hold,” DaBreo-Lettsome stated.
Public Estate Manager Floyd Stoutt also underscored the project as a testament to the Office of the Deputy Governor’s commitment to maintaining government-owned structures with historical relevance.
GND Construction has been awarded the contract for the project, with the first phase expected to be completed by November 2024. Motorists and pedestrians are advised to exercise caution in the area.
The office had previously aimed to complete the work by October 31, but the new completion date was not specified in the recent announcement.
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It would be better to complete the rehabilitation of the ‘New’ Administration Building on Wickhams Cay BEFORE commencing this project! This Territory has been functioning poorly for 7 years since Irma without either administration building.
That building Har been there for ages / do you all know how strong the structure is . They broke down 2 buildings that was
built lots of years
later ( cultural center
/ and the school
next to it ) now why
jump on that and not the other administration building ❓️ where’
the opposition’s voice on this white
elephant
If they finish the New Administration Building they will lose all that kick back from the rents they are paying.
People have to collect rent. You know the number of buildings which will be empty if the main ADMIN building reopens.
Sensitively done and rehabilitated to the nearest possible context to the original structure is paramount to our understanding and appreciation of our past. I applaud preserving this building and restoring it. It has been way too long in the making and I hope more attention and finances are budgeted and available for preserving our architecturally valuable heritage.
Preservation is a wonderful thing, too little of it is done here which leads people to a lack of understanding of who they and where and what they came out of which makes them who they are. However while this building has great significance the rehabilitation needs to be done inside where the mold and whatever else exists that adversely affects the health of people who work in the building resides.