VIGL Secures One-Year License to Operate Racino at St. Croix’s Randall “Doc” James Racetrack

VIGL Operations LLC’s Chief Financial Officer, Andrew Dubuque, expressed a mix of anticipation and caution following the Casino Control Commission’s approval to grant the company a license to operate a casino at St. Croix’s Randall “Doc” James racetrack. This decision, announced on Thursday, represents a significant milestone in a journey punctuated by hurdles and delays.

While specific conditions from the Virgin Islands Casino Control Commission (VICCC) are still pending, the approval allows VIGL to move forward. VICCC’s Chair and CEO, Marvin Pickering, confirmed that the resolutions would be issued promptly, although it remains unclear when construction, which has stalled for several months, will recommence. VIGL now faces the dual task of completing both the racetrack and the casino, expected to open concurrently.

The project, which began in 2016, aimed to revamp the horse racing tracks on St. Croix and St. Thomas. However, resistance from gaming entities on St. Thomas in 2020 led VIGL to withdraw from the initial agreement, citing continuous government and private sector disruptions. A renewed agreement in 2022 reignited efforts to revitalize the St. Croix track, despite a subsequent reduction in the construction scope presented in 2023.

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. voiced his frustration earlier this year over VIGL’s sluggish progress, particularly their hesitation to advance without a casino operation guarantee at the racetrack. However, a pivotal Casino Control Commission hearing followed, culminating in the issuance of a one-year racino license to VIGL.

During the hearing, Mr. Pickering highlighted the comprehensive nature of the vetting process and the importance of the commission’s deliberations. He acknowledged the cultural significance of horse racing in the community, stating that the casino license approval would facilitate the sport’s comeback on St. Croix. He stressed the critical need for thorough examination of all applications, noting that the integrity and financial suitability of the applicants had been rigorously assessed, involving third-party consultations.

The meeting also saw the issuance of two-year licenses to several key casino personnel and a four-year renewal of VIGL’s license for the Caravelle Hotel and Casino. Concluding the session, Mr. Pickering expressed optimism about the eventual completion of the racetrack project, looking forward to resuming traditional horse racing activities.