Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. announced Monday via a press release that he will be meeting with U.S. Coast Guard officials regarding the April 30 Captain of the Port orders directing the M/V Water Spirit II and BVI M/V Admirals Pride to stop their current Mediterranean-style mooring operations at Pier 10 in San Juan.
Bryan is asking the Coast Guard to consider a temporary variance that would allow the vessels to continue operating while all parties work together on a safe, practical, and lasting solution, according to the release.
“We respect the Coast Guard’s authority and we share its commitment to maritime safety,” Bryan said. “At the same time, we have to recognize the real-world impact this decision could have on the people of the Virgin Islands. This route moves food, refrigerated goods, vehicles, appliances, construction materials, industrial parts and household items that our residents and businesses rely on. We are asking for a fair opportunity to work through the issue together without cutting off an essential service before a workable alternative is in place.”
Bryan hopes that the meeting will result in the Coast Guard allowing the vessels to continue operating temporarily while safety and mooring concerns are addressed, the release stated.
“The issue is about…protecting a supply chain that affects the cost, availability and timely movement of goods across the Territory. Any sudden disruption…could have consequences for residents waiting on household items, businesses filling orders, grocery stores stocking shelves and contractors trying to keep projects moving,” he said.
Bryan extended thanks to the U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Juan for its continued partnership and stated he is encouraged that the Coast Guard has agreed to meet with him to discuss a path forward.
