The minister said, on Monday, October 12, 2020, during the ground breaking ceremony for the project, that the change will be the territory’s way of keeping up with the times.

The market square will be transformed into a modern facility with “16 kiosks shopping splendour, accompanied by a gazebo, green spaces, restrooms, a bus depot and local monumental artifacts,” he stated.

“Change is inevitable, we have to keep changing, adapting, and adjusting to be relevant to the times and to stay ahead of the times. Transformation is healthy, this is good for the territory and our people when we are constantly looking for ways to improve our capabilities, our competencies, our offerings, and how we package and present our offerings,” he remarked.

Hon Rymer said the project is his ministry’s way of making the city pedestrian-friendly, beautiful and persons who live and visit can have an enhanced experience.

“Our city should reflect a thriving economy; it must reflect who we are, a proud and progressive people. It must complement our status as one of the most beautiful places on the planet and a top tourist destination. It must create the atmosphere that drives success. So this development is a significant step in stimulating the next level of economic growth and social activities. It is my home that we will achieve support from you the Virgin Islands residents,” he pointed out.

“It introduces a bit of freshness to things and keeps things exciting. Our capital is the heart of our territory, and this is a place that has been sending out strong positive vibes, vibes that will be infectious, vibes that will lift the energy levels in all our villages and communities.”

More markets to be constructed

In the meantime, Premier and Minister of Finance Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1) said other communities such as Carrot Bay and the sister island of Virgin Gorda will not be left behind.

He informed that plans for the two above mentioned projects have already started.

“We are going to continue this same kind of market…we have similar things planned for the Virgin Gorda market square,” he said.

He further mentioned that residents of Carrot Bay would be engaged on the upcoming development ‘in the near future’.

Meanwhile, the vendors who operated at the Road Town Market have been temporarily relocated close to the fire station.