Repair works are to commence soon on the third phase of Bregado Flax Educational Centre (BFEC) on Virgin Gorda following the signing of a contract by the Government of the Virgin Islands, the Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) and Quality Construction Limited.
The contract was signed earlier today for 1.7 million dollars to completely rebuild Blocks 2 and 4 of the centre. The project will also include internal refurbishment and replacement roof for Blocks 2 and 4, provide 11 classrooms, a science laboratory, IT laboratory, art room, library, staff and bathroom facilities.
On behalf of the Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Andrew A. Fahie, Deputy Premier and Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Carvin Malone said that he is pleased that the RDA has continued its mission to help rebuild the Territory even during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Honourable Malone said, “We have to look at how we can start to rebuild and reinvigorate our economy so that we can have all of the necessary construction companies moving. The RDA has been quite keen in working around the clock because you cannot just have progress without a lot of work being done in the background. So, we recognise the work of the RDA.”
Minister for Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture, Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley thanked all parties involved for reaching this far even with all that is happening in the world with the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We should use this opportunity to accomplish as much as possible,” he said, adding, “The online learning that we have now implemented allows us to have continuity in our education system and hopefully we can get started even earlier on the works for the (BFEC) Building given that students would not be on campus.”
Dr. the Honourable Wheatley assured the public that the Government of the Virgin Islands will continue to carry out its mandate during COVID-19 because of their commitment to the task of recovery from the hurricanes of 2017.
Phase One of the project is complete and includes the immediate repairs to the temporary classrooms and teacher facilities. Phase Two which is also complete includes repairs to Block 1 (12 classrooms, playground and related infrastructure) and was implemented by UNITE BVI.
The Recovery Development Agency is an agency under the Premier’s Officer and the Government of the Virgin Islands through the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture will continue to seek and provide the best learning environment for students across the Territory.