Caneel Bay, St. John By GETTY IMAGES
The National Park Service today released an initial set of concepts that could guide the redevelopment of Caneel Bay at Virgin Islands National Park. To that end, the public is invited to provide input on the concepts for 30 days beginning Jan. 18.
"We developed a preliminary range of options that prioritize the protection of resources and expand public access to Caneel Bay,” said V.I. National Park Superintendent Nigel Fields. “Civic engagement is an important part of the redevelopment process. We look forward to receiving the public’s feedback as we work together to create the best possible future for Caneel Bay.”
According to NPS, while the Caneel Bay retained use estate (RUE) will remain in place until its expiration on September 30, 2023, the NPS began planning for the Caneel Bay redevelopment last fall. The goals of the redevelopment plan are to ensure the preservation and protection of natural, cultural and marine resources, provide for economic development opportunities through commercial services, maximize operational efficiencies, and ensure compliance with law, regulation and policy, the Park Service said.
In line with these objectives, four preliminary redevelopment options are proposed for the public to comment on, including:
Additional information about the proposed redevelopment options can be found at http://parkplanning.nps.gov/CaneelBayRedevelopment and will be discussed at the public engagement meetings.
NPS will hold a virtual public meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 8 at 6 p.m. AST. Members of the public can attend the virtual event or submit written comments by visiting http://parkplanning.nps.gov/CaneelBayRedevelopment.
Written comments may also be hand-delivered or mailed to the park headquarters at:
Caneel Bay Redevelopment and Management Plan
c/o Superintendent Nigel Fields
1300 Cruz Bay Creek
St. John, VI 00830