Works Ministry begins critical coastal roadway repairs

The Ministry of Communications and Works has begun critical coastal protection and roadway improvement works along the Sir Francis Drakes Highway between Fort Recovery and Cox Heath, marking the first phase of a broader nine-mile road enhancement project from the West End Ferry Terminal to Road Town.

The works follow the signing of a $14,088,620.02 contract with Tortola Paving in December 2025 and target one of the territory’s most vulnerable coastal corridors. Initial activity now underway includes strengthening the existing revetment system, with additional boulders being installed to create a protective setback zone between the shoreline and the roadway. The aim is to reinforce the corridor’s resistance to wave action and coastal erosion.

“These works are a major step forward in strengthening one of our most vulnerable coastal roadways. By investing in stronger sea defences, improved drainage, and more resilient pavement, we are protecting lives, property, and critical transportation links. This project reflects our commitment to building resilient infrastructure that can better withstand the impacts of climate change and severe weather, while improving safety and daily travel for residents and visitors alike,” Works Minister Kye Rymer stated.

Following completion of the revetment upgrades, crews will begin reconstruction of the sea defence wall along the corridor. The wall has deteriorated and collapsed in several areas, according to the ministry. Once rebuilt, it will act as a secondary line of defence, working in tandem with the revetment, which serves as the primary coastal barrier protecting the roadway.

As part of this phase, approximately 4,000 linear feet of roadway between Fort Recovery and Cox Heath will be upgraded with concrete pavement. The ministry said the concrete surface is intended to improve durability in an area that has historically sustained severe damage from storm surge and passing tropical systems, providing greater resilience during extreme weather events.

The project also includes installing a new V-drainage system to channel surface water away from the roadway and discharge it safely through the sea wall and revetment. This is intended to reduce flooding and limit further erosion along the corridor.

The Fort Recovery to Cox Heath works form part of a three-phase effort focused on this exposed stretch of highway. Upon completion, the ministry will proceed with additional paving and infrastructure improvements along the remainder of the West End to Road Town route. Motorists are advised to exercise caution as temporary traffic disruptions may occur during construction.