Contracts for the design services for an estate home for members of the judiciary and a National Cultural Arena have been officially signed by Premier and Minister of Finance of the Virgin Islands, Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R9). Photo: Office of the Premier

The Junior Minister for Culture and Tourism, Honourable Luce D. Hodge-Smith (R4) Deputy Governor, Mr David D. Archer, Jr. and the Premier of the Virgin Islands, Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) attended the signing ceremony on Tuesday March 10, 2026. Photo: Facebook

Demolition Works at Estate House #2 (Oleander House) in MacNamara. The design for the new building has been given to TigerQi Architecture. Photo: RDA

The contract signing ceremony took place today, Tuesday, March 10, 2026, and saw Premier and Minister of Finance of the Virgin Islands, Dr the Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), and CEO of the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA), Mr Anthony S. McMaster, sign contracts with TigerQi Architecture, represented by Lavina Liburd and 3DE Limited, which was represented by Jose C.B. de Castro.

The Estate House #2, known as Oleander House (formerly the Chief Minister’s House), requires significant upgrades to better accommodate judicial members. The design will be done by TigerQi Architecture.

Addressing the signing ceremony, Premier Wheatley stated that today marks another meaningful step in our government's commitment to building a stronger, more resilient, and more culturally vibrant Virgin Islands.

"We are here to formalise the engagement of design consultants for two very important projects, each different in purpose, but both deeply connected to our vision for modern, sustainable, and forward-looking territory," Hon Wheatley said.

The premier added that he will ensure that the funds needed for the completion of this project will be readily avaliable. "As Minister of Finance, you can be assured that the funding for this will be forthcoming so that once the designs are finished, and once we've gone through our procurement process, we'll have the funding necessary to move forward with this very important project."

National Cultural Arena design

The government also signed a contract for the architectural and engineering design of a national cultural arena.

The cultural arena, which is expected to be located behind the Ralph T. O’Neal Central Administration Complex, is being developed as part of the National Sustainable Development Plan to promote local culture. It is intended to house the arts, music, and drama, and will maintain spaces for cultural display.

3DE Limited will create the design for the cultural arena.

Hon Wheatley stated that, "The second project we are advancing today is the architectural and engineering design for the National Cultural Arena, to be developed behind the RT O'Neil Administration Complex. Since the area's first use, it has proven its value as a venue for major public events.

"Its proximity to the Ralph T. O’Neal Central Administration Complex, the cruise pier, and ample parking make it an ideal location for large gatherings, but today, we begin the transition from temporary use to long-term vision."

The proposed national cultural arena will be a purpose-built facility, designed to support performances, festivals, cultural showcases, and community events. The project will include permanent utilities, flexible public-use spaces, vendor stalls, sanitary facilities, security features, and all the supporting infrastructure needed for a safe, accessible, and durable venue.

According to the Premier, "This project is about more than infrastructure. It is about identity. It is about giving the Virgin Islands a dedicated and fit-for-purpose space to celebrate who we are, our music, our creativity, our traditions, and our shared story."