Gov. Bryan Expands Enterprise Zones

St. Croix Times Staff

USVI - Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has signed an Executive Order expanding the existing enterprise zones in Frederiksted, St. Croix, and the Garden Street and Upstreet areas of Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas. The order also establishes new commercial zones in the downtown area of Charlotte Amalie and in Cruz Bay, St. John.

The Executive Order is part of the Bryan-Roach Administration’s broader efforts to promote economic revitalization, attract private investment, support small businesses and restore aging infrastructure in underserved communities throughout the Territory.

“These zones are more than just mapped boundaries. They represent a commitment to economic opportunity, neighborhood restoration and business growth in the heart of our towns,” Governor Bryan said. “Whether we are strengthening Frederiksted, uplifting Upstreet or building new commercial capacity in Cruz Bay and downtown Charlotte Amalie, we are making a meaningful investment in our people and our future.” 

Authorized under the Enterprise Zone Commission Act, Title 29, Chapter 19 of the Virgin Islands Code, the Executive Order expands the geographic scope of existing enterprise zones to include additional properties with demonstrated need for development and reinvestment.    

     It also designates two new commercial zones in:

• Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas, including key corridors such as Veterans Drive, Gutters Gade, Wilmmelskafts Gade, and Commandant Gade Over Vandet. 

• Cruz Bay, St. John, encompassing the area surrounding the Cruz Bay Creek, Frangipani Lane and Gallows Point.     

Businesses located within these designated areas will become eligible for incentives through the Virgin Islands Economic Development Authority (VIEDA) and the Enterprise Zone Commission (EZC). These incentives may include tax credits, facade improvement assistance, and access to business development resources. 

The new and expanded zones are consistent with the goals outlined in the Comprehensive Land and Water Use Plan and the strategic initiatives of the Economic Development Authority. 

“Enterprise and commercial zones provide a clear framework to support business development, encourage building restoration and generate long-term economic activity,” said Wayne Biggs Jr., Chief Executive Officer of the VIEDA. “This action gives our communities new tools to grow responsibly and thrive.”

The changes take effect immediately. Updated maps and application guidance will be published by the Enterprise Zone Commission in the coming weeks. 

For more information, residents and business owners can visit www.usvieda.org or contact the EZC directly.