Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Mark Vanterpool affirmed that the upcoming hydrology study will be done in consultation with the residents of Road Town.

He made the statement at the May 4th launch of the Hydrology Study and Flood Risk Reduction of the Road Town Catchment, which is being funded by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).

The ten-month study is being done to analyse the options for flood reduction in Road Town while mapping the levels of risks; identify cost effective drainage improvements; and develop drainage policies and plans.

Minister Vanterpool said, “The Capital - Road Town, the commercial hub of the Virgin Islands, was particularly affected by the storm water flooding [Tropical Storm Otto, 2010], causing significant damage and disruption of economic activity. A study of the Road Town Catchment is intended to be a model, to treat drainage problems more systematically and comprehensively.”

Honourable Vanterpool explained that the Territory is in the Hurricane Belt, which means that every year there is likely to be hazardous weather conditions that cause damage to the infrastructure.

Regarding the public consultation, Honourable Vanterpool said, “I encourage everyone to get involved, as we work together to develop resilient communities in the Virgin Islands.”

The works minister said the consultants will conduct stakeholder meetings at the beginning, during, and end of the project, to get feedback from the public and private sector, non-governmental and community organisations.

Consultants will be working with expertise from the Public Works Department, Department of Disaster Management, Town and Country Planning Department, Survey Department, Ministry of Finance, the Social Development Department and the Conservation and Fisheries Department.

The contract for the Hydrology Study and Flood Risk Reduction of the Road Town Catchment was signed on March 28 for $499,340 between the Government of the Virgin Islands and Amec Foster Wheeler Environment & Infrastructure UK Ltd.

The Ministry of Communications and Works is committed to developing a sustainable infrastructure that can withstand natural disasters and other hazards.

Photograph and audio clip are attached.

• Audio clip of statement from Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Mark Vanterpool at Hydrology Study press conference.