Rda Signs Health and Harbour Contracts
The Recovery & Development Agency has signed two major contracts: a $623,230 façade clean-up and new signage project at the Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital, and an $854,633.43 contract for removal and disposal of derelict vessels in Sea Cows Bay Harbour. The agency says the projects — and an MOU with the Virgin Islands Shipping & Maritime Authority naming an environmental site supervisor — support recovery, public safety and environmental protection across the territory.
The Virgin Islands Recovery & Development Agency (RDA) announced this week that it has signed contracts for two priority projects aimed at improving health infrastructure and marine environmental safety across the territory. The first contract, valued at $623,230.00, covers façade clean-up and installation of new signage at the Dr D.
In a Facebook post, the RDA said the work builds on recent upgrades at the hospital, including the completion of the Medical Gas Building and the installation of an Oxygen Generating System. The agency framed the contract as part of ongoing efforts to restore and modernise critical health facilities for residents and visitors.
A second, larger contract — worth $854,633.43 — was signed for removal and disposal of derelict vessels in Sea Cows Bay Harbour. The work will be carried out by a joint venture between Sandwise Ltd. and Commercial Dive Services Ltd., the RDA said. The project is intended to restore safe access, reduce navigational hazards, and improve environmental conditions in and around the harbour.
The RDA also confirmed that a Memorandum of Understanding has been formalised with the Virgin Islands Shipping & Maritime Authority (VISHMA), and that Isha Hodge has been designated as Site Supervisor (Environmental) for the Derelict Vessels Project. The appointment underscores the environmental oversight component of the work, which can include hazards such as fuel and pollutant removal, safe disposal of wreck material, and protection of seagrass and coral habitats.
For BVI residents, officials say the hospital façade and signage improvements should enhance patient access and public confidence in essential services, while the harbour clearance aims to protect local fisheries, recreational boating and tourism assets often affected by abandoned or derelict vessels.
The RDA characterised the agreements as strategic partnerships that reflect its commitment to progress, resilience and rebuilding the Virgin Islands "one project at a time." The agency did not provide a detailed public timeline for when work on either contract will begin or conclude.
Local stakeholders and residents will be watching for project schedules, environmental safeguards and plans for community consultation as the RDA moves forward with implementation.
Primary source: VINO