The Virgin Islands Public Finance Authority on Tuesday approved a series of initiatives supporting public health, youth development, infrastructure, and economic growth during its regular board of directors meeting on St. Thomas.
Among the measures advanced were funding allocations for the Health Department’s Third Annual Wellness Fair and Jobs for America’s Graduates Virgin Islands, known as JAG VI. Board members also reviewed support for agricultural cooperative development initiatives intended to explore producer-led business models in the territory, according to the press release.
“These investments reflect the Authority’s continued commitment to improving quality of life throughout the Virgin Islands while supporting projects that strengthen our economy, public health, and opportunities for young people,” Nathan Simmonds, VIPFA’s director of finance and administration, stated in the release.
The meeting included Gov. Albert Bryan Jr., Secretary Keith O’Neale, Finance Commissioner Kevin McCurdy, and attorney Dorothy Isaacs, according to the release.
Board members also considered resolutions related to operational and infrastructure matters, including the expansion of office space for VIPFA operations and disaster recovery support services managed through the Office of Disaster Recovery, the release stated.
Quarterly reports presented during the meeting highlighted activity by VIPFA subsidiaries, including viNGN and the West Indian Company Limited. The reports pointed to growth in cruise passenger arrivals, broadband expansion, federal grant activity, and ongoing economic development initiatives across the territory, the release stated.
WICO reported cruise passenger traffic increased about 27.5% during fiscal year 2026 compared with the same period last year, the release stated.
Meanwhile, viNGN reported continued expansion of broadband and community Wi-Fi initiatives, FEMA-funded infrastructure improvements, and efforts to explore international telecommunications opportunities connecting the Virgin Islands to global markets, the release stated.
The board also approved the appointment of Keith E. Richards to fill a vacant seat on the West Indian Company Limited board of directors.
VIPFA said it will continue supporting projects focused on infrastructure, economic opportunity, and public services throughout the Virgin Islands.
