The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA), in partnership with the Government of the Virgin Islands, has officially signed two contracts for design consultancy services that will transform the Virgin Islands landscape and advance the Territory’s sustainable development agenda. 

The contracts for the Fisheries Landing Site at the Omar Hodge Fishers’ Wharf and the Road Town Master Plan were signed during a ceremony on Tuesday, 24th March, marking a significant step toward strengthening food security, enhancing the Blue Economy, and guiding the long-term development of the Virgin Islands.

Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, described the occasion as a meaningful milestone in the Territory’s development.

“These contracts represent progress, vision, and confidence in the future of the Virgin Islands,’ the Premier said, adding, “A modern, well-designed Fisheries Landing Site will support livelihoods, enhance food resilience, and reinforce our commitment to responsible use of our marine resources.”

Highlighting the significance of the Road Town Master Plan the Premier said, “Similarly, the Road Town Master Plan will help us create a capital city that is functional, resilient, and attractive — one that works for its people and one that we can all be proud of.” 

The Premier added, “Road Town continues to expand.  Growth is a sign of a healthy and dynamic economy, but it also brings new pressures on our infrastructure.  This is why planning is essential. Through proper planning, we can ensure that our limited land space is used efficiently and sustainably.”

Junior Minister for Tourism and Culture, Honourable Luce Hodge-Smith, emphasised the importance of the Road Town Master Plan in improving quality of life and shaping the Territory’s identity.

“Today marks a moment where we can truly feel progress for our community. Road Town is the heartbeat of our Territory—our commercial centre, administrative hub, and social soul. As we grow, so do the challenges, and the need for a sustainable, unified plan has become increasingly urgent,” the Jr. Minister said.

Hon. Hodge Smith continued, “We want a capital that feels ‘Rooted in Culture’.  We want a city where our heritage isn’t just in a museum but is felt in the architecture, the public spaces and the very flow of the streets.  This master plan is the key to making Road Town a world-wide destination that still feels like home.”

The Road Town Master Plan will establish a strategic, phased roadmap for the Territory’s capital, addressing land use, mobility, infrastructure, and resilience. The plan is expected to guide sustainable growth, improve walkability and ensure that development is aligned with national priorities while enhancing the daily experience for residents and businesses.

The contract for the Road Town Master Plan, valued at $74,000, was awarded to OBM Limited, a firm with over 60 years of experience in the Virgin Islands. Managing Director, Mr. Marvin Flax, noted the firm’s deep connection to Road Town and commitment to delivering a practical and forward-looking plan.

“Road Town is deeply personal to me. From my childhood along its corridors to my professional work in shaping spaces, this project presents a unique opportunity. Master plans must be living, breathing frameworks—responsive to change and grounded in communication and stakeholder engagement. We look forward to delivering a roadmap that the Virgin Islands can be proud of,” the Road Town Master Plan Design Consultant said.

The Fisheries Landing Site will provide a safe, organised, and sanitary environment for fishers, improving operational efficiency while preserving an important part of the Virgin Islands’ cultural heritage. The project also honours the legacy of the late Omar Hodge, whose vision for the Fishers’ Wharf continues to guide its development.

The design consultancy for the Fisheries Landing Site was awarded to WDMO Group Design & Drafting valued at $35,200. Managing Director, Mr. Wayne O’Neal, expressed appreciation for the opportunity and commitment to delivery. “We are grateful to be selected by the RDA and look forward to working closely with the team to deliver a high-quality product. Our focus is on collaboration and ensuring that this project is executed to the standard that the people of the Virgin Islands deserve.”

Speaking at the ceremony, RDA Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Anthony McMaster, underscored the importance of both projects in shaping the Territory’s future.

The RDA CEO said, “Sustainability is no longer a concept for the future—it is something we must act on now to secure our tomorrow. These projects represent food security, the development of our Blue Economy, and the continued advancement of our country. They are about ensuring that our Territory is developed by us, for us, and for generations to come.”

Mr. McMaster also reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to transparency and good governance, noting that both contracts were awarded through a competitive Quality and Cost-Based Selection (QCBS) procurement process.

“These projects were not awarded arbitrarily. They were subject to a transparent and professional process that assessed both technical capability and financial proposals. We are proud to see local firms rise to the top against regional competition.”

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. As the Agency transitions toward its expanded development-focused mandate, it continues to support initiatives that strengthen public infrastructure and promote sustainable growth.

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NOTE TO EDITORS:

Highlights from the 24 March, 2026 contract signing ceremony for Design Services for Fisheries Landing Site at the Omar Hodge Fishers’ Wharf & the Road Town Master Plan.

For more information contact:

Colene A. Penn

Head of Communication

Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency

T: (284) 440-0040

General Enquiries:  communications@bvirecovery.vg 

Website: www.bvirecovery.vg