The Virgin Islands Public Works Department announced in a press release Tuesday the deployment of six new paratransit vans for VITRAN Plus service, marking the first delivery in a long-planned expansion of the territory’s public transportation fleet.
Of the six vehicles placed into service, three are assigned to St. Croix, two to St. Thomas and one to St. John. The delivery represents the first shipment of 12 new paratransit vehicles scheduled to arrive in the U.S. Virgin Islands, according to the press release.
Public Works Commissioner Derek Gabriel said the deployment follows nearly three years of planning and coordination, the press release stated.
“This is a proud and important moment for VITRAN and for the communities we serve,” Gabriel said. “We have been working toward this goal for nearly three years, and seeing these vehicles finally deployed underscores our commitment to strengthening public transportation across the Territory. For many of our seniors and residents with disabilities, paratransit service is not optional. It is essential.”
Deputy Commissioner of Transportation Karole Ovesen-McGregor, who oversees VITRAN operations, said the new vehicles will improve reliability for riders who depend on the service, the release stated.
“These paratransit vehicles represent more than just new equipment. They represent reliability, independence, and improved quality of life for our riders,” Ovesen-McGregor said. “Our team has worked diligently for years to move this procurement forward, and we are excited to finally place these vehicles into service for the people who depend on this service every day.”
In addition to the paratransit expansion, DPW confirmed that 16 new fixed route buses are expected to arrive later this year, with the first shipment anticipated in March. The buses are expected to enhance service along key routes and improve overall system reliability, the release stated.
“Both fixed route and paratransit services are vital to a strong mass transit system,” Gabriel said. “Public transportation plays a critical role in supporting our workforce, serving underserved communities, and improving access across the Virgin Islands.”
DPW and VITRAN will continue preparing for the arrival and deployment of the remaining vehicles as part of ongoing efforts to modernize public transportation across the territory, the release stated.
