Bottlebrush, left, and Verawood Bulnesia, right, trees. The Bottlebrush and Verawood Bulnesia species of trees have been identified as the replacement trees for those with aggressive roots on DeCastro Street. Photo: Internet Source

The mature trees currently lining DeCastro Street include Mahogany, White Cedar and Yellow Poui. Photo: VINO

The DeCastro Street Sidewalks Improvement Project has come under public scrutiny, particularly after the revelation that mature trees with aggressive roots would be replaced. Photo: VINO

The mature trees currently lining DeCastro Street include Mahogany, White Cedar and Yellow Poui.

According to the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA), following an assessment by the engineers and the contractor for the DeCastro Street Sidewalks Improvement Project, the trees will need to be replaced because their established root systems are currently located under the sidewalks and parking lots and will inevitably experience damage during the demolition of the sidewalks.

The RDA, in a press release on September 4, 2026, said it recognises the community's connection to the trees, the history they represent, and the shade they provide.

“With that in mind, the design includes the replacement of trees as an integral part of the project.

New species of trees to be planted

“Bottlebrush and Verawood Bulnesia species have been selected because they are salt-tolerant and have less aggressive root systems, which make them better suited to the saline environment of the Wickham’s Cay area,” the RDA stated.

The intention, according to the RDA, is to establish a healthier, more sustainable treeline that can grow alongside the improved six-foot, ADA-compliant sidewalks without compromising pedestrian safety or accessibility.

“This approach will also deliver better value for money by reducing the risk of recurring damage and avoiding the need for further repairs,” the RDA stated.

The project was slated to start on Monday, September 7, 2026, but has been delayed, and a new start date is yet to be announced.

See related article below:

Start of DeCastro Street Sidewalks Improvement Project delayed