Bryan signs Virgin Islands Comprehensive Land and Water Use Plan into law

Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. signed Act 8981 into law at Government House on St. Croix on January 7, 2025, adopting the Virgin Islands Comprehensive Land and Water Use Plan, according to Government House.

Government House said the plan fulfilled a mandate established 54 years earlier under Act 2774, which required a comprehensive framework to guide the territory’s growth. Previous legislative efforts had not resulted in an approved plan, according to the statement.

The administration said the Department of Planning and Natural Resources began coordinating with agencies in October 2022 to align the plan with transportation, agriculture and housing strategies. More than 1,500 residents participated in town halls across the territory, 92 volunteers served in working groups, and more than 700 residents subscribed for updates, according to Government House.

The plan sets out guidance for development, land and water use, conservation, and infrastructure investment. Government House said it addresses issues including overdevelopment, traffic congestion and declining water quality.

Official source: https://www.vi.gov/governor-bryan-signs-landmark-virgin-islands-land-and-water-use-plan-into-law/