The Virgin Islands Port Authority is progressively working to complete renovations to the Loredon L. Boynes Sr. Dock in Cruz Bay, St. John. VIPA Executive Director Carlton Dowe announced that half of the dock and passenger lounge will be restricted to public access to allow its contractor to work on that section for a period of 8 to 10 weeks starting September 3, 2023. After the first section is completed, the contractor will work on finishing renovations to the opposite side of the terminal and dock. The area of the dock that is under construction will be hidden behind a secured fence with a construction curtain and marked with cautionary signs. The partial closures are necessary for the contractor to complete the project by its February 2024 deadline.
Ferry operators will load passengers onto the boats earlier to provide seamless movement of passengers and prevent congestion on the dock during the construction phase of this project. Dowe apologized for any inconvenience caused and thanked the public for its patience as VIPA works to enhance the primary port of entry to St. John. He added that safety is VIPA’s number one priority at its ports. Travelers are asked to adhere to the signs posted on the dock and any instructions given by VIPA dockmasters, police, and security officers stationed there. Any concerns may be reported to the VIPA Public Relations office at (340) 774-1629 or via email at info@viport.com.
The renovation project at the Boynes Dock will include resurfacing the pier, installing a canopy adjacent to the existing terminal, and adding a male and female restroom and an electrical room for an emergency power generator. The project is funded via a $1.5 million appropriation from the Legislature of the U.S. Virgin Islands from the St. John Capital Improvement Fund. VIPA awarded the project to Rodriguez and Garland via a competitive bidding process.
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