The Board of Governors of the Virgin Islands Port Authority approved the concept for a new terminal building at the Henry E. Rohlsen Airport on St. Croix, as presented by VIports Partners. VIports also presented its concept for the Cyril E. King Airport Terminal on St. Thomas, which includes renovation of the existing terminal within its current footprint and expansion of the second floor for passenger use. The presentation of the proposed concepts was made during the VIPA Board Committee of the Whole meeting on June 27.
Presentation of the proposed terminal design concepts will occur during community meetings that will be held on St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John during the upcoming months.
VIPA Executive Director Carlton Dowe said, “The decision made by the Port Authority Board today marks a significant advancement in our collaboration with VIports Partners to establish top-tier airport infrastructure for the U.S. Virgin Islands. This pivotal step is part of the ongoing transitional phase. We are committed to maintaining transparency with the public as we collectively strive towards the objective of constructing world-class airport terminals that this territory can be proud of.”
“We are very pleased to have worked collaboratively with the Virgin Islands Port Authority to advance designs of these two critical airports – each with its unique sense of place – and look forward to meeting with community members in the coming months,” said Steve Nackan, president of Aecon Concessions, a shareholder of VIports Partners.
In March 2024, VIPA’s Board selected VIports Partners via a competitive bidding process to join with the Port Authority in a Public-Private Partnership (P3) to improve the USVI’s airport terminals. The project is currently in a transition phase that involves substantial work between VIPA and VIports.
This phase includes design, construction and permitting; employee transition; airline engagement; financial and commercial business activities; operations and maintenance; legal and project documents; regulatory matters; and stakeholder communication and outreach. This process will facilitate the development of design plans that best reflect the unique needs of both airports. Financial close is expected by the first quarter of 2025.
Board members attending today’s meeting were Chairman Willard John, Vice Chairman Derek Gabriel, Board Secretary Kevin Rodriquez, Tourism Commissioner Joseph Boschulte, Attorney General Nominee Gordon Rhea Esq., Celestino A. White Sr. and Leona Smith.
