Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Mark Vanterpool is inviting all residents to the official grand opening of the Tortola Pier Park slated for Tuesday, February 16.

Honourable Vanterpool in a statement to the House of Assembly said that he was extremely proud of this development that has been executed in a very short time to respond to the need for the Virgin Islands to remain and grow as a key Caribbean cruise tourism destination.

Minister Vanterpool stated that funds paid to date on this project amounts to $71.9 million, and he assured the public that they have received value for their investment in this crucial project.

The Honourable Minister said the vision was to create an aesthetic West Indian sense of arrival, in the spirit of old Main Street design and feel.

He added, “Most of the buildings sit on 80 foot long pile foundations, allowing for their sustainability in storm or earthquake conditions and allowing for upward expansion in the future. They are mostly built of concrete and steel, with certain heavy wooden features, to create the historical ambience, as envisioned. Madam Speaker, the Tortola Pier Park will not only be open to cruise ship passengers, but our local residents are welcome to utilize all of the facilities there, as well.”

Minister Vanterpool said he was pleased to report to the Honourable House, that in the next 21 days, the Tortola Pier Park will be officially opened. He said all are welcomed to attend the Official Opening Ceremony on Tuesday, February 16 at 5:15 p.m.

He added, “Madam Speaker, a description by me, of this Park, would not do justice. One has to personally visit the site, to get a full appreciation of its beauty. It is a whole new Town in the Capital City of Road Town.”

The day is expected to be a memorable occasion with a parade that will begin at 3:30 p.m. and an opening ceremony at 5:15 p.m. Disney Cruise Line and MSC Cruises are also expected to be docked at the cruise pier.

At completion of the landside development, the site will consists of 11 buildings, 18 kiosks/huts and one gazebo.