St. Croix to Enhance Emergency Services with New Charles “Tappy” Seales Fire Station

On April 12, St. Croix took a significant step forward in public safety and emergency readiness with the groundbreaking of the new Charles “Tappy” Seales Fire Station and Multipurpose Center. This event, graced by Governor Albert Bryan Jr., Senate President Novelle Francis, and other notable figures, signals the start of a major initiative to rebuild five fire stations across the territory, financed through FEMA’s disaster recovery grant programs.

Located at its original site in Estate Grove Place, the planned facility promises enhanced capabilities, including a dedicated space for a VIPD officer and a multi-purpose saferoom that will serve as a storm shelter for fire and EMS personnel. Funded by a substantial allocation from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, the project underscores the territory’s commitment to strengthening its infrastructure against potential disasters.

Governor Bryan emphasized the critical importance of the new fire station, stating, “Providing the VIFEMS with this new and improved fire station not only promises more effective emergency planning but also enhances our ability to save lives—a definitive benefit for the entire community.”

Adrienne L. Williams-Octalien, director of the Office of Disaster Recovery, outlined the extensive federal support for the initiative, with over $53 million earmarked for the territory-wide fire station replacements, including $6.8 million allocated for this specific facility.

The event also served to commemorate the late VIFEMS Director Daryl A. George Sr., whose dedication to the project was celebrated. Senate President Novelle Francis highlighted that this is the first fire station constructed post-Act 8545, which in April 2022 merged fire and emergency medical services under the VIFEMS umbrella.

VIFEMS Director Designee Antonio Stevens expressed gratitude towards all stakeholders involved, including the Office of Disaster Recovery, the V.I. Territorial Emergency Management Agency, the V.I. Police Department, the Department of Public Works, the Department of Property and Procurement, and contractors such as Jaredian Design Group, LLC, Marco St. Croix, and Persons Services Corp.

Slated for completion in Fall 2025, the Charles “Tappy” Seales Fire Station and Multipurpose Center aims to be a cornerstone of enhanced safety and emergency preparedness for the community of St. Croix.