USVI Community Pulse
Positive Progress in Land Exchange Deal Despite Recent Setback in Senate

The ongoing land exchange deal, a significant collaboration between local and federal governments, was again in the spotlight this Tuesday. Initially ratified by the Legislature, this ambitious agreement proposes the exchange of Whistling Island, known as Whistling Cay, for a valuable parcel of land in Estate Catherineberg St. John. This trade is earmarked for a groundbreaking project – the construction of the island’s first public K-12 school.
The September decision by the 35th Legislature marked a pivotal moment, showcasing a commitment to education and community development. Despite this, a recent legislative session saw a focus on refining the agreement’s wording, a testament to the diligent and thorough approach of our lawmakers.
Senate President Novelle Francis highlighted the need for precision in legislative language, leading to a proposal for a technical amendment. This attention to detail underscores the government’s dedication to ensuring that all legal aspects are meticulously addressed.
Senator Angel Bolques Jr. introduced Amendment 35-543, aiming to enhance the agreement’s clarity without impacting its core objectives. This amendment sought to align the land exchange with the National Park Service Organic Act and relevant federal regulations, ensuring that public access to Fungi Passage remains unchanged.
While there were concerns raised by Sen. Alma Francis Heyliger about potential implications on public access to waterways, these discussions reflect the democratic process at its best – open, transparent, and focused on protecting the interests of the Virgin Islands residents.
Senator Bolques’ reassurance about maintaining traditional access to Fungi Passage highlights the government’s commitment to preserving the rights and privileges of the community. His clarification that the National Park has always allowed unrestricted access and that this will continue is a positive affirmation of the government’s intent to uphold community values.
Despite some opposition, the spirited debate around this amendment demonstrates the government’s dedication to ensuring that any land exchange is conducted with the utmost consideration for public benefit and legal compliance.
The narrow margin in the voting outcome, with the amendment failing to pass, is not necessarily a setback but rather a step in the rigorous process of legislative decision-making. This level of scrutiny and debate is a healthy sign of a vibrant, functioning democracy where every detail is given due consideration.
As the situation evolves, what remains clear is the government’s unwavering commitment to advancing this land exchange deal in a way that best serves the interests of the Virgin Islands’ residents, respecting both local traditions and federal regulations. The path forward may have its challenges, but the dedication to achieving a beneficial outcome for all stakeholders remains a top priority.
USVI Community Pulse
New Parking Fee at Fort Christianvaern Starting Dec. 11

Beginning December 11, visitors to Fort Christiansvaern in Christiansted, St. Croix, will need to pay a $10 daily parking fee, as announced by the National Park Service (NPS). This new automated payment system, located at the parking lot’s entrance, will facilitate payments exclusively via debit and credit cards, as cash transactions will not be available.
The NPS has implemented this fee to generate additional revenue, aimed at enhancing the overall experience for visitors. The funds collected will be strategically invested in improving the park’s facilities and infrastructure, contributing to a more enjoyable and well-maintained environment for all guests.
Parking will be available from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. To ensure the safety and proper use of the parking lot, vehicles left after 5:00 p.m. may be towed at the owner’s expense, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the stipulated hours.
The NPS encourages the continued use of the parking lot at the Christiansted Historical site, highlighting its safety and convenience for both town and park visitors. They anticipate positive public cooperation with these changes.
For further inquiries or to address any concerns, individuals can contact Chief Ranger Gabriel Laurencin at [email protected] or call 340-773-1460 for assistance.
USVI Community Pulse
St. Croix Prepares for Dazzling Christmas Boat Parade with Parking and Traffic Regulations

The picturesque island of St. Croix is abuzz with excitement as it gears up for the much-anticipated annual Christmas Boat Parade on Saturday, December 9. This festive highlight draws crowds to Christiansted’s scenic boardwalk, prompting the V.I. Police Department to enforce specific parking restrictions and road closures for a seamless event experience.
Key measures implemented by the VIPD in preparation for the parade, a cornerstone of St. Croix’s holiday celebrations, include:
- A parking ban on Queen Cross Street, from Riddims to the Caravelle Casino, effective 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. (midnight). This measure is essential for vendor setup and smooth parade preparations.
- King Street will also be subject to a no-parking policy from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. (midnight). This restriction encompasses the stretch from Florence Williams Library to Government House and includes the vicinity from Strand Lane (Purple Papaya) to King Street.
To ensure public safety and efficient traffic management, roadblocks will be in place at the intersection of King Street and King Cross Street (near the Library), commencing at 11:00 a.m. and lasting until midnight. Access during this time will be limited to vendors and officials associated with the Boat Parade Committee.
The Christmas Boat Parade is an iconic tradition in St. Croix, attracting thousands to the Christiansted boardwalk for a magical evening. The event is renowned for its display of intricately decorated boats, illuminating the night with festive lights, culminating in a stunning fireworks show.
The VIPD extends its gratitude to the community for cooperating with these traffic and parking arrangements, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring a safe, enjoyable holiday experience for all attendees.
USVI Community Pulse
Ford Initiates Major Recall of Over 45,000 Vehicles Due to Door Latch Concerns

Ford Motor Company has begun issuing notices to owners of select models, specifically the 2015 Fiesta, 2016 Fusion, and the 2016 Lincoln MKZ, regarding a critical safety issue identified in these vehicles.
The company disclosed in mid-November the discovery of a defect in the door latches of certain vehicles. The defect involves a latch component that may break, potentially making the door difficult to secure or, in some cases, allowing it to open unexpectedly during travel.
Notably, some of these vehicles are known to have been sold and registered in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
In response, Ford dealerships are conducting thorough inspections of the door latches on affected vehicles, with a directive to replace all four side door latches at no cost to the vehicle owner if they find any issues.
Vehicle owners who prefer immediate action rather than waiting for postal notifications can access further information by reaching out to Ford’s customer service at 1-866-436-7332 or contacting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.
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