RDA outlines scope of sidewalk project; trees to be replaced not removed

The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA), said the improvement to De Castro Street Sidewalk is needed as extensive deterioration is evident throughout the corridor, and made it clear the trees are being replaced. It noted cracked and displaced pavement has created hazardous walking conditions, particularly for persons with disabilities, older residents, children and other pedestrians. In several areas, aggressive tree roots have lifted and fractured the pavement, causing uneven walking surfaces and obstructions. The scope includes reinstatement of existing drainage infrastructure to support effective stormwater management, approved landscaping and the installation of new trees; and all associated civil works required to deliver the upgraded streetscape. Junior Minister for Tourism and Culture Luce Hodge Smith said, 'This project is about making Road Town work better for everyone. By improving the infrastructure, safety, accessibility, appearance and user-friendliness of this important corridor, we are creating a capital that is easier to navigate and better positioned to support commerce, public services and community life.' The mature trees lining DeCastro Street include Mahogany, White Cedar and Yellow Poui. According to the RDA, following assessment by the project engineers and the contractor, the affected trees will need to be replaced because their established root systems are currently located under the sidewalks and parking lots, and will inevitably experience damage during the demolition of the sidewalks. The RDA said it recognises the community's connection to the trees, the history they represent, and the shade they provide and with that in mind, the design includes the replacement of trees as an integral part of the project. The agency noted that Bottlebrush and Verawood Bulnesia species have been selected because they are salt-tolerant and have less aggressive root systems, which make them better suited to the saline environment of the Wickham's Cay area. The intention is to establish a healthier, more sustainable treeline that can grow alongside the improved six-foot, ADA-compliant sidewalks without compromising pedestrian safety or accessibility. This approach will also deliver better value for money by reducing the risk of recurring damage and avoiding the need for further repairs. Construction will be carefully phased to minimise disruption and maintain safe and continuous pedestrian and vehicular access. Given the critical nature of DeCastro Street, the contractor is required to work with exceptional sensitivity to traffic and pedestrian movements and a majority of the work will take place during nighttime hours. Any required detours will be coordinated with the RDA and the relevant government agencies and communicated to the public. The contract duration is 120 days, with projected completion in February 2027. The project forms part of the Road Town Development Partnership, which is implemented by the RDA as directed by the Road Town Partnership Committee, a public-private partnership. Once completed, the RDA believes the project will improve Road Town's infrastructure, aesthetics, safety and user-friendliness while enhancing the capital's business profile and reputation. It said the upgraded DeCastro Street will better serve residents, businesses, Government service users and visitors of all ages and abilities.