Minister for Communications and Works Honourable Kye Rymer has given a comprehensive update on the Ralph T. O’Neal Administration Complex renovation project and the delays that arose since the project began. 

Honourable Rymer reaffirmed the Government of the Virgin Islands committment to complete the project while stating that his ministry continues to work closely with all contractors and stakeholders involved.

The minster said, “I recognise the frustration caused by the extended timeline. We share that frustration and are determined to complete the RTOAC as quickly and responsibly as possible. The Government remains committed to delivering a safe, modern, and resilient seat of government, and we continue to work closely with all contractors and stakeholders to accelerate progress.” 

Ongoing Works

Minister Rymer stated that a new elevator in the west atrium is under construction by Building Construction Management, however, installation is about one year behind schedule. He said the ministry is in regular communication with the company to resolve logistical issues and complete installation and commissioning without further delay.

The Minister for Communications also noted that Biogerm Solutions has been engaged for mould remediation. All basement files have been safely removed; cleaning and restoration of those records will begin within two to three weeks under close coordination with the Deputy Governor’s Office and in line with international records management standards. These works are scheduled for completion by November 2025.

Design and Procurement

Honourable Rymer added that OBM International (OBMI) was engaged for the interior and external design packages that were expected in June 2025 but was extended to accommodate changes following the 2023 election, including the reassignment and establishment of new ministries. The design packages include full office fit-out details such as seating, partitions and walls, lighting, MEP integration, ICT provisioning, security, and finishing specifications, all of which must reflect those staff and functional requirements. 

The minister said, “OBMI is behind the adjusted schedule: designs are now expected in October 2025. That delay has shifted the procurement timetable; tendering will now begin in November 2025, moving the overall project timeline back by approximately two months. OBMI has completed about 70% of the design work and the Ministry continues to press for timely delivery and quality outputs.”

Minister Rymer indicated that The Ministry of Finance has begun procurement of long-lead MEP equipment under the Caribbean Development Bank loan facility, which includes $5.6 million for MEP and ICT outfitting.

Projected Timeline and Benefits

The Ministry of Communications and Works aims to award contracts in December and mobilise a contractor on site by January 2026 barring any further delays. Substantial completion is targeted for the fourth quarter of 2026, with full commissioning by the second quarter of 2027.

Honourable Rymer said, “Taxpayers are currently incurring over $2 million each year in rents and related costs for ministries and departments housed in temporary facilities — including additional fit-outs and office space requirements that were not originally part of the Complex — expenses that will be avoided once staff return to the RTOAC. Bringing offices back together will improve inter-agency collaboration, reduce recurring expenditure, and enhance public service delivery.”

The minister concluded that the ministry is in constant communication with all project partners and remain actively engaged to mitigate further delays. “Where contractors or consultants are behind schedule, the Ministry is pursuing practical solutions and enforcing contractual measures as needed to keep the project moving. We understand the public’s desire to see this project completed and are doing everything within our authority to deliver results as quickly and efficiently as possible. Regular updates will continue as work progresses, “Honourable Rymer stated.

To view the full statement, visit the Government’s Facebook Page at BVIGovernment.

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About:

Restoration of the Complex began in 2019 after it sustained severe damage from the 2017 hurricanes. Priority work to make the building watertight and secure — including replacement of the roof membrane, repairs to skylights, installation of impact-resistant windows and doors, and exterior repairs — has been completed. These major contracts, together valued at over $4.9 million, are finished. Demolition of internal office spaces has been carried out, and exterior structural works such as retaining walls, drainage systems, and driveway access are approximately 85% complete.