The government signed contracts for the design of the Road Town Partnership and the Fisheries Landing Site at the Omar Hodge Fishermen's Wharf in Baughers Bay with OBM Limited on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. Photo: Youtube

Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) has emphasised that recent international events, such as pandemics and geopolitical tensions, have highlighted the fragility of international supply chains stating,that it is not only wise but essential to strengthen local food production systems, Photo: Youtube

These remarks were made as the government signed contracts for the design of the Road Town Master Plan and the Fisheries Landing Site at the Omar Hodge Fishermen's Wharf in Baughers Bay with OBM Limited on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.

Impacts of global shocks

"In recent years, the world has seen how fragile international supply chains can be disrupted. Global shocks from pandemics to geopolitical tensions have shown us that we cannot depend solely on imports for our food supply. Strengthening our local food production systems is not just wise, it is necessary," he emphasised.

Honourable Wheatley stated that a modern, well-designed fisheries landing site would provide fishers with the facilities they need to operate safely, efficiently, and sustainably.

"This new modern landing site will support livelihoods, enhance food resilience, and reinforce the government’s commitment to the responsible use of our marine resources."

Road Town project is significant

Hon Wheatley highlighted the emotional significance of the project, noting, "The late Omar Hodge held a strong and genuine vision for the fishers warth. He understood the importance of supporting our fishers and preserving this essential part of our culture."

Regarding the Road Town Master Plan project, the Premier stressed its importance in addressing the growing needs of the local economy. "Roadtown is the heart of our territory, our commercial centre, our administrative hub, and a space where thousands of people live, work, and move every day, as our economy grows, as more businesses invest, and as more people see opportunity here, Roadtown continues to expand."

The signing of these two pivotal design-service contracts will shape the future of the territory, it has been touted.

The design contract for the Fisheries Landing Site includes comprehensive design services for the Fisheries Landing Site at the Omar Wallace Hodge Fisherman’s Wharf and Park. Meanwhile, the Road Town Master Plan Design contract will provide design services guiding the broader development and revitalisation of Road Town.

These two projects are being done under the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA).