It was all good news at the Government House Press Briefing as the Office of the Governor kicked off 2025 with an upbeat report to the Territory that detailed various key infrastructure, sustainable energy and digital modernization projects.
Mr. Richard Motta, Governor Albert Bryan Jr.’s Communications Director, led off the Press Briefing in the historic Ballroom of Government House St Croix, by wishing everyone a happy Black History Month.
“As we celebrate Black History Month we recognize that Black History Month is the Virgin Islands history. It is the foundation of our culture, our resilience, and our shared identity from the fields of art, science and politics to civil rights. Virgin Islanders have made immense contributions to the progress of our nation, shaping its history in ways both profound and enduring,” Mr. Motta stated proudly.
He then went on to announce the long-awaited reopening of the East Airport Bridge.
“This morning, Governor Bryan was joined by personnel of the Department of Public Works (DPW), officials from Federal Lands Highway and the leadership and staff of VI Paving in a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the official reopening of the new and improved Bridge at East Airport Road,”
Mr. Motta also pointed out several other ongoing road improvement projects on St. Croix including the repaving of East and West airport road leading to Henry E. Rohlsen Airport, the bridge on Route 669, along with a newly issued contract for the improvement of the badly deteriorating Mahogany Road which was granted to Marco St. Croix for just under $18 million, funded by Garvee Bonds.
“Mahogany Road will encompass critical upgrades including resurfacing, drainage enhancements, and structural reinforcements,” stated Mr. Motta. “The notice to proceed has been let and the contractor can officially proceed. Residents of the Rain Forest: Soon Come.”
The Communications Director proceeded to inform the Territorial residents that the Governor had recently signed a Letter of Intent with TJ Ocean Auto and Metro Motors to expand access to Electric Vehicles (EVs) and insure they can be sold and properly serviced in the Territory.
“This is part of the Administration’s long term vision to modernize transportation, reduce energy costs, and
make the Virgin Islands more self reliant,” Mr. Motta stated.
He also detailed the highly applauded launch of VI Quick File for online tax filing for residents of the Virgin Islands. Interested parties should contact the IRB for further details and procedures.
In the question and answer segment of the briefing, Yellow Cedar Media’s Reporter M.A. Dworkin asked about circulating rumors involving raids on local businesses by ICE, due to President Trump’s initiatives on immigration.
“Yes, there have been some reports of operations by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) throughout the Territory,” Mr. Motta confirmed. “Any further details on what those operations entailed I do not have.”
Yellow Cedar Media was concerned if any of the new President’s policies might have an effect on Federal programs being instituted in the Territory, particularly those of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) which involves billions of dollars.
“That’s an ongoing process,” Mr. Motta replied. “In respect to the FEMA projects, all of those projects have been officially obligated. We don’t expect any of those funds to be impacted by any policy changes by this administration moving forward. However, we’re still monitoring on a day-to-day basis all of the announcements that are coming out of the White House and looking to see how, if at all, they will have any impact on the Territory.”
Yellow Cedar Media followed up that line of questioning:
“We understand that we have a very strong lobbyist in DC who plays both side of the aisle and is looking out for the Territory on these matters,” M.A. Dworkin inquired.
“That is correct, That is accurate.” Mr. Motta replied. “We do have a very strong lobbying arm in Washington, DC. The Governor also makes frequent visits to Washington, DC and meets with various members of Congress on both sides of the aisle. We also rely on our Delegate to Congress, Stacey Plaskett, to do the work she continues to do on behalf of the people of the Virgin Islands in Washington, DC.”
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