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Governor John P. de Jongh, Jr. said Wednesday that construction will soon get under way to beautify and enhance amenities at Franklin Powell Park in Cruz Bay, St. John.
The work will start Monday, February 7 and is scheduled for completion by the middle of June. During that time, the park will be closed to the public, but provisions will be made to avoid disrupting the public’s access to nearby businesses.
Crews will do landscaping, place new benches and install an underground electricity system for new lighting. “Franklin Powell Park is the first attraction most people experience when they enter Cruz Bay. The park stands at the entrance to the beautiful town, and should be a gem for this community and its visitors,” de Jongh said.
“This work will be undertaken in a manner that minimizes disruptions for the businesses that surround the park and the neighboring community. We have discussed these objectives with the contractor, and are confident they understand and will be responsive. We apologize for the imposition that will be caused by this beautification project that is long over-due and sorely needed to recapture the park’s charm and its importance as a central focal point,” Public Works Commissioner Darryl Smalls said.
The project will cost $336,000 and Apex Construction has been selected as the contractor.
Due to the closure, organizers of the St. John Arts Festival, to be held February 19-25 in Cruz Bay, will relocate the event to the baseball field adjacent to the Virgin Islands National Park building. Government work crews will help ensure a smooth transition to the new venue by erecting a stage for the performance of the 73rd Army Band and provide electricity to the alternate venue.
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