Committee on Disaster Recovery, Infrastructure and Planning

The Committee on Housing, Transportation & Telecommunications has scheduled a meeting for Friday, September 12, 2025, in the Frits E. Lawaetz Legislative Conference Room.

Bill No. 36-0070 An Act amending title 28 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 19 by adding section 423 relating to failure to use property acquired through the exercise of the power of
eminent domain.”
Bill No. 36-0110 “An Act amending title 20 Virgin Islands Code, part I, chapter 1 to require a permit from the Virgin Islands Department of Public Works before the excavation of any
public roadway.”
Invited Testifiers:
Honorable Derek Gabriel, Commissioner, Department of Public Works
Julio Rhymer, Sr., Director, Office of Management and Budget
Chris George, Administrator, GIS Division, Office of the Lieutenant Governor

BLOCK II

The Committee will receive testimony from the Office of Disaster Recovery regarding key disaster recovery efforts currently underway across the Territory. The discussion will focus on contractor performance, newly awarded projects, and the implementation and oversight of major recovery programs, with special attention to public concerns, transparency, and accountability.

1. Contractor Performance Review (Territory)
• Receive updates on the performance of contractors engaged in disaster recovery projects and whether construction projects are progressing on schedule and within budget.
• Discuss project oversight mechanisms, and local workforce participation.

2. Testimony on $961M in New Disaster Recovery Awards (St. Croix)
• Receive testimony regarding the recent announcement of over $961 million in disaster recovery project awards.
• Discuss major initiatives including:
• Rebuild USVI Education Bundle
• North Central St. Croix Horizontal Infrastructure Bundle
• Selection process, contractor qualifications, and design-build approaches.

3. Oversight of the EnVision Tomorrow Program
• Receive updates on progress of homes and address public concerns and media reports highlighting substandard or unsafe repairs under the EnVision Tomorrow Program.
• Review issues raised by program participants and current oversight mechanisms for contractors.
• Discuss actions to improve accountability, protect homeowners, and restore public trust.

Invited Testifier:
Adrienne L. Williams-Octalien, Director, Office of Disaster Recovery