Road Town public-private partnership progress questioned
Questions are being raised about the progress of the long-promised public-private partnership (PPP) for the revitalisation of Road Town, with residents asking when visible improvements will begin.
The project, announced months ago, aims to upgrade the capital by incorporating pedestrian-friendly features, improving sidewalks, establishing designated parking zones, and ensuring accountability for property upkeep. However, there has been little public sign of movement since the plan was unveiled.
During a recent broadcast of Virgin Islands Voice, a caller asked Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley when the government intends to address Main Street’s poor condition and implement changes to make the area more accessible and orderly.
In response, Dr Wheatley said the matter falls under the responsibility of Junior Minister for Tourism and Culture Luce Hodge-Smith.
“Yeah, I think it’s on Honourable Luce Hodge-Smith’s agenda. She has all of that on her work plan. And she does regular updates to the public. And I believe she’ll be able to report on that soon,” he stated.
He added that the Road Town Partnership, which involves collaboration between the government and private stakeholders, is also preparing to advance the initiative.
“The Road Town Partnership as well, I think it’s on the Road Town Partnership’s work plan. Honourable Luce Hodge-Smith is the ministerial lead for that project. So I believe we’ll see good things happening from that Road Town Partnership pretty soon,” Dr Wheatley explained.
The Premier acknowledged that Main Street has been the subject of numerous proposals over the years, including pedestrianisation and beautification efforts aimed at improving safety and mobility.
“There are lots of proposals for Main Street for many years about pedestrianising it and certainly making it safer for persons to walk on, et cetera. So I would say something is on the way,” he stated.
The Road Town PPP was first introduced as part of the government’s broader plan to modernise the capital through shared investment with private partners. The government has previously highlighted its goals to upgrade infrastructure, create a more appealing business environment, and enhance the city centre’s tourism appeal.
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Even if you put a dog or chicken to run Road Town they would do a better job than Luce. At least they would be present. This woman is a waste of time. Just another person up in their entitlement feelings. If the news don’t mention she you don’t know she exist. Myron would be a better replacementt for Road Town district. Sad part she don’t care if she waste everybody time cause she only wanted to try out politics and F the place from doing nothing. Even a mad man could beat Luce. I bet my money anybody will do better. Forget about that project for now nothing going happen than try fool people for election. Strrups.
Whatever they do now won’t matter.
Myron is good in district 6 thank you very much. We love our rep!
We need 12 more of Myron since the original occupied in D6. We need no more of Luce kind. If angry was a person. Darn woman wasted our time.. biggest loser and the worst part up and down talking about culture. She does not deserve a penny raise or any greedy money. Treeasurytreasuryplease refrain from paying Luce.
I like luce as a person but not as a politician… she’s not up to the time. Please don’t vote her back in . Noting under her portfolio has been brought to fruition. Her priorities are backwards. I can’t even say she’s trying because they have these big press conferences saying what they will do but you see noting progressing.
Just in time for election
Anyone who knows her, knows she is a talker NOT a doer. You voters thought it was a good idea to elect THE TALKING PARTY. Only one of the ministers do any work and he only concentrates on District 5.
Sad thing is: you all are going to elect them again!!!
To be honest this is becoming a boring newsite i dont know what is happening to the editor..but they need to pull up their socks and be better journalists.
Luce didnt even have 30 backpacks to give for the back to school event she had at the Bandstand. Much less a “Work Plan” for Road Town.
She is doing nothing but following you around like a fool. She will not see a second term for certain!