Governor Albert Bryan, Jr.
Governor Albert Bryan has publicly responded to speculations about the Hull Bay Ramp and Parking Improvements Project. His recent statement aims to address and dispel what he says are rumors that have been circulating within the Virgin Islands community.
"I committed to the residents of Northside and the fishers of Hull Bay five years ago during my campaign that the Bryan-Roach Administration would prioritize expanding the boat ramp and enhance parking facilities. Our intentions have always been to ensure a smooth experience for both local fishers and those visiting the beach for leisure," the governor said.
His emphasis was on the decade-old demand for this project by local fishers and beachgoers. He highlighted the public town hall meetings organized to gather insights from Northside's residents and update them on the project.
Governor Bryan expressed his disappointment over some factions wanting to revert the project to its conceptual phases, given the extensive discussions and deliberations that have already occurred.
The history of the Hull Bay ramp project dates back to 2011, according the administration. The primary design was introduced in 2013 after two public meetings. However, due to limited funds, the construction plans were put on hold. It was only in 2017 that renewed funding breathed life into the project. But unforeseen circumstances like the ramp's collapse in February 2019 saw the funds redirected for immediate repairs.
V.I. Dept. of Planning and Natural Resources Commissioner, Jean-Pierre Oriol expressed his optimism about the current phase. "We are now presented with a unique opportunity to design a resilient boating ramp with associated trailer parking in Hull Bay. We also plan to improve parking for beachgoers," he remarked.
Upon revealing the architectural and engineering plans, DPNR said it received diverse feedback, from concerns over continuous public access during construction to the magnitude of the project and felling of trees. Mr. Oriol assured that the current ramp would remain functional throughout the construction and would be dismantled only after the new ramp's completion.
Detailing the specifics, Oriol said, "The existing ramp measures slightly less than 100 feet, whereas the proposed one extends to 120 feet. This design ensures easier vessel launching without submerging the vehicles."
Parking considerations for vessel launching have been expanded, with a particular focus on trailer use. "Our plans propose structured parking for both vehicles and their trailers," added Oriol.
The redevelopment will necessitate the removal of 13 trees, with a commitment to replace 10 of them, according to Gov't House.
The Governor's Office, along with DPNR, conducted a public Town Hall meeting in February 2022. They presented the redevelopment plans and updated the community on the project's status. A forthcoming public gathering is scheduled at The Shack in Hull Bay on Thursday at 6 p.m., offering another chance for community members to voice their opinions.
Concluding his statement, Oriol emphasized, "Our objective is a long-term solution for public access to this area, and we are on track to provide exactly that."
