The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA), in collaboration with the Government of the Virgin Islands and the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA), has signed a contract for Roof Repairs and a Lightning Protection System at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital and its Annex building.

The contract, valued at $200,044.00, was awarded to KM Construction, led by Managing Director Mr. Keith Malone. The contract was awarded through a National Competitive Bidding (NCB) process, reinforcing the RDA’s commitment to transparency, fairness, and value for money, while providing opportunities for qualified local contractors to participate in national development.

The scope of work includes repairs and upgrades to the roofing and guttering systems, a fully watertight roofing system, and the installation of a robust and fully compliant lightning protection system to ensure proper grounding and enhanced safety across the facility.

This contract represents another critical step under the BVIHSA Infrastructure Improvements Programme, with a series of works contracts now actively progressing, signaling continued momentum in strengthening the Territory’s healthcare infrastructure.

Premier and Minister of Finance Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley, reaffirmed Government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and advancing our development.

“As we seek to build this sustainable nation, it is critically important that we support the systems that care for the health of our people. We never know when we or our loved ones will need the services of our healthcare facilities,” he said.

The Premier acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Health and Social Development, the BVIHSA, and the RDA in advancing the project. 

“I am in complete support of the Minister and his entire team in addressing the critical priorities in the healthcare system. These contract signings are a clear indication that progress is being made, and we will continue to move forward in delivering for the people of the Virgin Islands”.

Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, underscored the importance of the project, stating: “Today’s signing reflects this Government’s steadfast dedication to ensuring that our health facilities remain safe, resilient, and fully equipped to support the delivery of quality healthcare services.”

The Health Minister continued, “These works are both timely and critical, and upon completion will strengthen infrastructure, enhance safety, and support the uninterrupted delivery of high-quality healthcare to the people of the Virgin Islands.”

Acting Chief Executive Officer of the BVI Health Services Authority, Dr. June Samuel, emphasised the importance of the works as part of the Authority’s eight-year strategic vision and plan—the first of its kind since its establishment in 2014.

“We are required to have facilities that meet international standards for the delivery of healthcare. It is therefore critical that our Hospital and Annex buildings are fortified to maintain optimal internal environments. In healthcare, these environments directly impact the functioning of staff, the performance of equipment, and the safety of patients,” the Acting CEO of the BVIHSA said.

Dr. Samuel added, “Many will recall that following the 2017 hurricanes, our buildings served as a safe haven for the community and Government services. This contract brings us back to a place where our internal spaces are restored to optimal conditions for all stakeholders and clients.”

Chief Executive Officer of the RDA, Mr. Anthony McMaster, congratulated the successful contractor who submitted one of three bids through a NCB Process issued in December 2025. 

“Today, we celebrate with BVI Health Services Authority as we continue the repairs and redevelopment of our health infrastructure. This contract represents a critical step in protecting one of our most important public assets,” Mr. McMaster said.

KM Construction, which has previously undertaken works on the Annex Building, welcomed the opportunity to continue contributing to the facility’s development. Mr. Malone said, “It is a pleasure to continue what was started. This is a very important project, and we fully understand its significance. We will do our best to deliver the works on time and within budget.”

This latest contract forms part of the broader BVIHSA Infrastructure Improvements Programme, which continues to advance through a series of targeted works aimed at strengthening the Territory’s healthcare facilities. 

To date, a contract was signed on 12 January, 2026 with Barry’s Electrical Services Ltd for the Generator Connectivity Project to improve power reliability across the hospital campus; and in November 2025, a contract was awarded to TCH for Building Façade Clean-up and Signage Installation to enhance the facility’s exterior and identity. 

In the near future, a contract will be signed for Clinics’ Lobby Repairs to improve patient-facing spaces and overall service experience. Together with the Roof Repairs and Lightning Protection works, these contracts signal a transition from planning to execution, delivering tangible improvements that enhance safety, resilience, and operational performance across the healthcare system.

Established in 2018, the RDA is a purpose-built specialist agency responsible for implementing priority recovery and development projects on behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands. Guided by its mandate of project implementation, fundraising, and capacity building, the Agency also supports initiatives that strengthen local capability and promote sustainable growth as it transitions toward an expanded development-focused role.