‘The USVI Can Do Big Things’: VIPA Announces Selection of Partner For Major Overhaul of Airport Terminals

In a major move towards the redevelopment of airport terminals in the U.S. Virgin Islands, the V.I. Port Authority Board of Governors on Tuesday selected VIports Partners to spearhead the project at both Cyril E. King Airport (STT) and Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX).

This group is now set to enter a transition agreement with VIPA, encompassing the operation, maintenance, and financing of the redevelopment efforts at both airport terminals.

The decision came after VIPA received two compelling proposals in February, following its request for proposals for the Airports P3 (public-private partnership) project. A meticulous evaluation led by the authority’s Evaluation Committee and based on the recommendation of VIPA Executive Director Carlton Dowe, resulted in VIports Partners being overwhelmingly chosen. Speaking on the partnership, Dowe expressed confidence and readiness for progress, stating, “This partnership proves that the USVI can do big things and that we are open for business. The time for progress is now, because the Caribbean and the rest of the world are not waiting for the U.S. Virgin Islands.”

VIports Partners, the chosen group, is composed of key players in the industry, including Aecon Group Inc. as the Terminal Developer, Aecon/Tikehau Star Infra as Equity Providers, AvPorts LLC handling airport operations, and Corgan Associates, Inc. as Terminal Architects, among others. The group’s proposal was lauded for offering the best overall value during the development and operational phases of both airports.