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Government Allocates $1.8 Million to Address Deteriorating Road Conditions in the Virgin Islands
The government has recently earmarked approximately $1.8 million to improve the most impacted stretches of roads. Minister of Communication & Works, Kye Rymer, announced a comprehensive plan that will be backed by immediate action to tackle the longstanding issue of deteriorating road conditions, particularly on Tortola.
“The long-standing issue of deteriorated road conditions in our territory, particularly here on Tortola, will be receiving immediate attention,” Minister Rymer declared during the press conference held today, April 18. “The government has recently allocated approximately $1.8 million to improve the most impacted stretches of roads.”
Highlighting the critical need for these improvements, Minister Rymer pointed out that frequent water pipe breakages have caused significant damage to the road infrastructure. Key areas slated for improvement include the diamond pump station leading into Enis Adams Primary School and the Little Dix Hill area, both of which are crucial for addressing the water issue.
“A portion of the allocated funds, $400,000, will be dedicated to the purchase of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes and fittings,” Minister Rymer elaborated. “HDPE pipes have proven to be versatile and durable, making them an ideal solution for our water infrastructure.”
Contracts for these improvements are currently undergoing thorough vetting, with works anticipated to commence in the near future. The approved funds will cover the costs of acquiring HDPE pipes and fittings, as well as labor for road resurfacing.
“The deplorable state of our road infrastructure is a matter of great concern for this government,” Minister Rymer emphasised. “We are fully committed to addressing this issue, understanding its impact on the daily lives of our residents and the overall development of our territory.”
Minister Rymer assured the public that this allocation of funds is just the beginning of comprehensive efforts to rehabilitate the road network. “The tender for the 38 miles is currently being evaluated,” he added, signaling ongoing efforts to secure additional resources and implement long-term road solutions.
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Monéa Earns Caribbean Music Awards Nomination, Making History for the British Virgin Islands
Rising music star Monéa has just hit another major milestone—she’s been nominated for a Caribbean Music Award, officially placing her among the top breakout dancehall artists of the year. She joins a talented lineup of emerging acts, including Armanii, Malie Donn, and Lady Lava, further proving that her influence on the Caribbean music scene is only growing.
Monéa is up for Caribbean R&B Artist of the Year, competing against a strong roster of regional talent, including Barbados’ Amanda Reifer and Jamaican stars Tosh Alexander, D’yani, and Dexta Daps—whom she’s previously collaborated with. Her signature sound, which she calls “Tropikana”—a fusion of dancehall and pop—has been turning heads internationally, solidifying her status as a genre-bending force in the industry.
The Caribbean Music Awards, now in its third year, will take place over Labor Day weekend in New York. Hosted by the Caribbean Elite Group, the event honors artists, producers, and industry professionals across multiple Caribbean genres. This year’s awards feature over 150 nominees across 40+ categories, including standout artists from the U.S. Virgin Islands like Pressure, Pumpa, Th3rd, Star Martin, and Kruziano.
Fans can support Monéa by casting their votes on the Caribbean Music Awards website, with voting open until Friday, May 1.
This nomination is historic—not only for Monéa but for her home, the British Virgin Islands. She’s officially the first artist from the BVI to ever receive a nod from the Caribbean Music Awards. The recognition couldn’t come at a better time, as she gears up to drop her highly anticipated sophomore album, Tropikana Vol. 2: Mood Swings, later this summer.
“Being nominated is an incredible honor,” Monéa said. “To be recognized among such talented artists is humbling, and I’m grateful for the support of my fans and my home in the BVI.”
Two individuals were arrested in connection with a violent incident reported on November 8, 2024.
Melicia Bodkin, 30, of Huntums Ghut, was charged with wounding and damage to property on February 24, while Deschon Hodge, 31, was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, being armed with an offensive weapon, and damage to property on February 26. Both have been granted bail and will appear in court in April.
Two separate stabbing incidents on Virgin Gorda last month have resulted in serious charges, including manslaughter and assault, as police continue to investigate violent crime on the island.
On March 25, Drew Farrell, 42, of The Valley, was arrested and charged with manslaughter in connection with a fatal stabbing that took place on March 20. The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has confirmed that the investigation into the incident remains ongoing.
Just days earlier, on March 16, a 17-year-old male—also from The Valley—was arrested and charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm following a stabbing incident reported on March 15. Due to the suspect’s age, his identity has not been released.
The RVIPF has not indicated whether the two cases are related but has reiterated its commitment to addressing violent incidents across the territory.
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