The Virgin Islands has begun installing high-capacity water meters at 11 reservoirs as part of the Water Optimisation Programme, running from May 27 to June 25, 2025. Led by the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency, the project will improve water monitoring, leak detection, and resource management, helping to ensure a more efficient and sustainable water supply. The $281,412.82 contract was awarded to Control Technologies Barbados Limited. This initiative supports national goals for resilient infrastructure and reliable water access.
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) successfully concluded its role as the exclusive Caribbean Destination Sponsor of the Mubadala New York Sail Grand Prix, held June 7–8, 2025, at Governors Island. This marked the final stop of SailGP’s American circuit and allowed the BVI Tourist Board & Film Commission to highlight the territory’s premier luxury sailing and tourism offerings to a global audience of over 10,000 attendees. Building on its previous engagement in San Francisco, the BVI used the high-profile event to reinforce its position as a top-tier sailing destination, showcasing its stunning waters, vibrant culture, and commitment to sustainable tourism.
The British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission is excited to announce the return of BVI Restaurant Week, happening from 28 June to 5 July 2025. As part of the BVI Food Fete Culinary Series, this vibrant event celebrates Tortola’s diverse food scene with curated dining experiences, themed days, and prix-fixe menus at nearly 40 participating restaurants. Under the theme “Your Belly Knows Best ~ The Perfect Week for Perfect Dining,” the week will feature local ingredients, cocktails, entertainment, and a “Foodie Passport” prize giveaway to encourage exploration. Restaurant Week is the third event in the BVI Food Fete series and reinforces the BVI’s growing appeal as a top destination for culinary and cultural tourism.
The Virgin Islands has begun installing large-flow, high-capacity water meters at 11 reservoirs as part of a major step toward sustainable water management. Starting May 27, 2025, and expected to finish by June 25, 2025, these smart meters will enable the Water and Sewerage Department to precisely measure water inflows and outflows, improve contract management, forecasting, and resource allocation, and help detect leaks to minimize water loss. This initiative, overseen by the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) on behalf of the Ministry of Communications and Works, is part of the broader Water Optimization Programme aimed at creating a more efficient, reliable, and resilient water infrastructure. The project supports national development goals and follows earlier efforts such as leak detection training for local plumbers. Residents are advised to monitor official channels for updates on any water service interruptions during installation.
The public is informed that free transportation will be available for residents in the East End and Paraquita Bay/Hodge's Creek areas during the temporary road closure in Hodge's Creek. From June 11 to June 25, Lebo Taxi Services (TX-774) will operate three weekday round trips via Ridge Road, with pick-up and drop-off points near Fine Foods Supermarket, Fat Hogs Bay, and HLSCC, Paraquita Bay. The daily schedule is 8:45 AM, 2:00 PM, and 8:30 PM, all starting from Fine Foods.
The July cohort of the 2025 BVI Tourism Summer Internship Programme has concluded with enthusiastic reviews from student participants and praise from partner hospitality businesses.
The British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission has announced the inaugural 284 Excellence Film Festival (284XFF), set for October 30 to November 2, 2025, aiming to bridge Caribbean literature and cinema. With the theme “Caribbean Literature in Motion: Caribbean Stories Reimagined,” the festival will showcase global films while spotlighting Caribbean narratives adapted for the screen. Featuring national, regional, and international competitions, as well as student and youth challenges, the event fosters creative collaboration and cultural exchange. Supported by major international film festivals and hosted in the BVI, 284XFF positions the Territory as a cinematic hub while empowering local and regional talent.
Dr. Ronald Smith-Berkeley, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, delivered remarks at the launch of the Virgin Islands National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) on February 11, 2025. He emphasized the importance of protecting the Virgin Islands' natural environment, which is vital to the economy, resilience, and quality of life. He highlighted the threats to biodiversity, such as climate change, pollution, and habitat destruction, with specific mention of sand mining on Anegada and the decline of coral reefs and endangered species like the Virgin Islands Rock Iguana. The NBSAP aims to provide a clear framework for sustainable development, integrating conservation into national planning. Dr. Smith-Berkeley acknowledged the support of various partners, including the OECS, PC Consultants Ltd., Dr. Shannon Gore, and the EU’s BioSPACE Project, and called on all members of the community to take collective action for conservation.
The Government of the Virgin Islands invites tenders for asphalt paving and road markings on 9 miles of primary roads. The project includes milling, material supply, asphalt plant setup, equipment provision, and installation of road markings and studs, with the goal of achieving a 15-year lifespan for the roads.
Premier Hon. Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley provided updates on various topics in his January 2025 press conference. He honored the late Lucia Harrigan and Celcila Georges, congratulated HLSCC on its 35th anniversary, and discussed tourism growth and the launch of a National Tourism Plan. He highlighted financial services initiatives, including a consultation on beneficial ownership and upcoming trade visits to Asia. The Premier also announced his appointment as President of UKOTA and provided updates on the implementation of COI recommendations and crime prevention efforts.