Frederiksted Residents Plan Community Protest at Estate Prosperity Beach

Residents of Frederiksted are planning a community gathering at Estate Prosperity Beach on Sunday to protest recent barriers to beach access. The barriers, including a row of boulders and signs indicating an “Environmental Restoration Project,” have sparked concerns among locals who see these measures as attempts to restrict public entry.

Arthur Petersen Jr., a long-time advocate for beach access, recalls his youth when he and other teenagers fought for public rights to the beaches of St. Croix. Their efforts culminated in the 1978 legislation ensuring public access to all beaches in the territory. However, Petersen believes the new barriers represent a regression to those days of restricted access.

The property owners near Estate Prosperity Beach assert that the boulders and signs are intended to protect the beach’s delicate ecosystem while maintaining public access. They argue that vehicles driving onto the beach have damaged sea turtle nests, and their measures are aimed at preventing further harm.

Petersen, however, disputes these claims. He became aware of the developments on June 1 through a neighbor and quickly voiced his concerns on social media, alleging the boulders were placed without the necessary permits from the V.I. Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR). He also pointed out that the “Environmental Restoration Project” was not affiliated with the department.

Jamal Nielsen, DPNR’s media relations coordinator, confirmed that the property owners were reminded of the need for a minor Coastal Zone Management (CZM) permit for the boulders. While the signs themselves are not illegal, the department recommended relocating the boulders slightly to allow for emergency and utility vehicle access and to provide parking for beachgoers.

Petersen questioned why the property owners did not follow legal procedures from the outset. Mathew Litman, representing the property owners, attributed the oversight to a “miscommunication” and stated that his family has since applied for the required permit.

Concerns about environmental damage due to heavy equipment used to place the boulders have also been raised. Petersen, a former deputy commissioner of agriculture, emphasized the potential harm to sea turtle nests and other aspects of the beach ecosystem.

In contrast, the Litman family insists that their actions aim to protect and restore the beach, which suffered erosion from hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. They highlight a designated public access path as evidence of their commitment to maintaining accessibility.

The historical tension between the property and local residents, exacerbated by a violent incident two years ago involving former tenants, adds to the current conflict. Petersen believes the property owners should have notified the public before making changes that affect beach access.

In response to the barriers, Petersen is organizing a community “dip” on Sunday. This event aims to reaffirm the public’s right to access all beaches on St. Croix and serves as a reunion for residents. Petersen underscores the message of resilience and community solidarity: “You ain’t running us off the beach.”

Residents are expected to gather in solidarity, showcasing their commitment to preserving the accessibility of their beloved beaches.