Governor Albert Bryan Jr. plans to sign a measure authorizing $156 million in GARVEE bonds to fund infrastructure projects in the U.S. Virgin Islands, including the revitalization of Veterans Drive and expanded ferry service between St. Croix and St. Thomas. The funds will be distributed equally across districts, with a significant portion allocated to repay previous bonds. Bryan emphasized the importance of federal partnerships and discussed efforts to secure disaster recovery funding and extend the rum cover-over rate. He also addressed concerns about federal funding and unemployment rates, highlighting the territory's economic challenges and opportunities.

The Grove Place Action Committee successfully held the postponed Liberty Day celebration in St. Croix, honoring the legacy of David Hamilton Jackson. Despite a smaller turnout due to the rescheduling, attendees enjoyed food, music, and reflections on Jackson's contributions, including founding the first independent newspaper and organizing the first labor union in the Danish West Indies. Raymond Williams, a long-time organizer, expressed satisfaction with the involvement of younger community members in the event's planning.

The V.I. Corrections Bureau and the U.S. Justice Department have jointly requested a federal judge to terminate a section of a settlement agreement concerning medical care at St. Croix’s John A. Bell Adult Correctional Facility. This move follows a report indicating 95% compliance with medical provisions, though mental healthcare remains hindered by staff shortages. The territory aims to use this as a model to end other sections of the agreement. Despite progress, issues like contraband and delayed payments to the court-appointed monitor persist, with the territory avoiding sanctions for a recent payment delay.

Anthony Thomas has been appointed as the new chief administrative officer of the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (WAPA). His responsibilities will include purchasing, inventory control, and property management. Thomas, who has a background in both government and private sectors, previously served as the Property and Procurement commissioner and held a position at Mon Ethos Pro Support. His appointment is seen as a step towards improving WAPA's operations. The article also touches on the recent controversies surrounding Mon Ethos Pro Support and its founder, David Whitaker.

The 35th Legislature of the Virgin Islands approved a measure to issue millions in bonds for infrastructure projects, including a ferry between St. Croix and St. Thomas and road improvements. The initiative, supported by Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. and V.I. Public Works Commissioner Derek Gabriel, involves GARVEE bonds, which leverage future federal grants. The proposed $156 million issuance will refinance existing bonds and fund new projects. The decision follows public concern over deteriorating roads, with unanimous legislative approval except for one absent senator.

The Bryan-Roach administration prioritizes road repairs in the U.S. Virgin Islands, addressing concerns over deteriorating infrastructure exacerbated by heavy rainfall. The weather has delayed ongoing projects and increased vegetation growth, complicating recovery efforts post-Tropical Storm Ernesto. The V.I. Water and Power Authority faces criticism for inadequate vegetation management, impacting power restoration. An emergency declaration by President Biden facilitated federal tax relief, but delayed revenues strain the government's finances, prompting legislative action to extend credit lines.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is engaging with the St. Croix community to address concerns about the potential restart of the St. Croix refinery and ongoing cleanup efforts under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). The EPA is reviewing a permit renewal for the Hovensa Environmental Response Trust, which continues to manage the cleanup of legacy contamination at the former Hovensa site. The community workshop aimed to educate the public on distinguishing between legacy contamination issues and current refinery operations, emphasizing the importance of informed participation in the permit renewal process.

The Gun Violence Prevention Office (OGVP) testified before the Senate Government Operations, Veterans Affairs and Consumer Protection Committee, highlighting a significant decrease in homicides in the U.S. Virgin Islands since 2019. Executive Director Tony Emanuel emphasized the office's role in community outreach and violence prevention, despite recent concerns over killings and suicides. The OGVP collaborates with various agencies and organizations to curb gun violence through education and outreach, having participated in over a hundred events and delivered presentations to thousands of students. Emanuel noted the challenges in quantifying the impact of their work but pointed to successful interventions by 'violence interrupters' and the absence of homicides during major local festivals. The committee, chaired by Sen. Carla Joseph, acknowledged the OGVP's efforts but requested more data for future hearings.

Andrew F. Thomas, founder of Thomas Bakery and Deli, passed away at 83, leaving behind a thriving family business. Originally from Trinidad, Thomas moved to the Virgin Islands in the 1970s and started the bakery in 1984 after a layoff. Despite initial challenges, the bakery expanded to multiple locations, becoming renowned for its titi and butter bread. Thomas's family, including his children and grandchildren, are committed to continuing his legacy. He is survived by his wife, five children, 24 grandchildren, and 24 great-grandchildren.

The V.I. Economic Development Authority has purchased a historic property in Frederiksted to establish an Agro and Food Innovation Center, aimed at boosting economic growth through food processing and kitchen facilities. The purchase was finalized for $800,000, with funding sourced from settlements with financier Leon Black and Jeffrey Epstein's estate. Concurrently, the Economic Development Authority reviewed applications for hotel redevelopment incentives, including a new Hampton by Hilton Hotel in St. Thomas. The authority also addressed noncompliance issues with financial consultant Greenleaf VI II and International and Capital Management Company.