Questions Over Road Town Shuttle Suspension
Radio hosts and residents are calling on the government to explain why the Road Town Park and Ride shuttle service has been suspended and to provide a timeline for its return. The electric shuttle network, introduced in February 2022 to ease congestion and help seniors and visitors, was put on reduced hours before being suspended from August 6 for mechanical repairs.
Concerns have been raised over the sudden suspension of the Road Town Park and Ride shuttle service, with radio presenters and members of the public urging the Ministry of Communications and Works to explain the status of the vehicles and restore the service promptly. The issue featured on the Talking Points programme hosted by Elvin Grant, Damion Grange and Violet Gaul.
Grant said a listener had reported that the shuttles had effectively stopped because vehicles had broken down amid what was described as a lack of maintenance. He and his co-hosts asked the government to examine the circumstances surrounding the suspension and to provide clarity for residents who rely on the service.
The electric shuttles were launched in February 2022 under the Road Town Park and Ride initiative. At the time the service operated on weekdays from 7 am to 6 pm, departing designated starting points every 15 minutes and serving more than 20 locations. The scheme followed an earlier free shuttle network introduced in June 2020 and was promoted as a way to ease traffic congestion, reduce taxi use for short trips, and make Road Town more pedestrian-friendly.
Presenters emphasised the practical importance of the shuttles for vulnerable and cost-conscious residents. "They were useful for the old age pensioners to get around town to do errands for persons that were coming from the sister islands into Road Town. And tourists without incurring a taxi fee," Grant said on air.
Gaul appealed directly to the Works Minister to intervene: "So, Minister, please, we’re appealing to you to get the shuttle system back up and running." A government bulletin issued on July 29 said the shuttle service was operating on reduced hours and that, from August 6, it would be suspended until further notice to allow the vehicles to undergo essential mechanical repairs and maintenance.
The announcement did not, however, provide a timetable for repairs, a status update on each vehicle, or details on interim transport measures for affected users. Residents and community groups are likely to press for clear information about repair timelines, maintenance plans to prevent future interruptions, and alternatives while the shuttles are out of service.
For many in the BVI — particularly seniors, daily commuters and visitors — the Park and Ride formed part of Road Town’s everyday transport fabric, and its prolonged absence risks increasing congestion and transport costs. The Ministry of Communications and Works has not issued further comment beyond the July bulletin.
Local officials are being asked to provide an update and a plan to restore reliable shuttle operations as soon as possible.
Primary source: BVI News