The Trellis Bay Rest Stop is officially opened providing a respite for travelers commuting between Beef Island and the eastern sister islands.
The facility will function as an arrival/departure lounge for passengers, providing shade, seating and restroom facilities for locals and guests travelling via ferry or private vessel for pleasure or business.
The official opening of the facility took place on Thursday, 5th December, 2024. Event attendees included members of the House of Assembly, led by the Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley, representatives from the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA), officials from the BVI Tourist Board, along with well-wishers.
Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley in his remarks called the Trellis Bay Rest Stop “a symbol of progress and resilience in our unwavering commitment in enhancing the Virgin Islands tourism product.”
“Today with the opening of this new facility, it is a new day in the Virgin Islands. This rest stop represents more than just shelter. It is a statement of our determination to create a functional, aesthetically appealing tourism experience that reflects our pride in our islands,” Premier Wheatley said.
He added, “This project embodies our vision for an improved tourism product that aligns with our reputation as a premier destination for travelers seeking a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage and exceptional service. It underscores our commitment to investing in infrastructure, supporting our people and the economy, while maintaining the charm and authenticity that makes the Virgin Islands unique.”
Chairman of the BVI Tourist Board & Film Commission Mrs. Delma Maduro shared that her team members were thrilled to finally unveil this vital facility to the public.
“Trellis Bay is not just a transit hub, it is a gateway to the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Virgin Gorda as well as the surrounding islands. Recognising this, we have worked diligently to enhance the area’s aesthetics and functionality, ensuring that it reflects the warm hospitality and charm that defines our beautiful British Virgin Islands.”
Board Member for the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency Mr. Marquese Maduro said that the RDA is proud to play its part in the Territory’s recovery and development story, and shared that the delivery of the rest stop is the result of a close partnership between the BVI Tourist Board, and by extension the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sustainable Development, and the Premier’s Office.
“By facilitating and improving the travel experience this rest stop is truly a welcomed addition to the Trellis Bay coastline and we look forward to further development of this area, including a completed grading of the surrounding parking lot.”
Malaki Smith, contractor representative for No Limit Construction,in his remarks expressed pleasure in completing, “the much-needed Trellis Bay Rest stop, a facility to be used by all.” He thanked the RDA project management team along with the construction team and local vendors for their support in the project.
Representative for the Eighth District Honourable Marlon Penn highlighted that the Trellis Bay area is a centre of commerce for the sister islands and the local area. Commenting on the parking lot which was filled to capacity, and the number of businesses in the area, the District Representative said, “Today is a welcomed day for Tourism and the Eighth District and we are here dedicating this important facility to the lifeblood of the BVI economy.” He spoke on the importance of maintaining the facility and the landscaped grounds to appeal to the user experience.
Minister for Health and Social Development and District Nine Representative Honourable Vincent Wheatley in his remarks, spoke of the historical ties between Virgin Gorda and Trellis Bay, with persons rowing between the two islands before modern means of transport became popular.
Honourable Wheatley also said Trellis Bay is the gateway to Virgin Gorda, Guana Island, Scrub Island and Mosquito and thanked the agencies involved for building the facility. “It is our facility. Let’s keep it clean. Let’s keep it pristine. Let’s use the building for what it was intended.” He thanked the local business and project donor Trellis Bay Market Bar and Grill for their support in providing restroom facilities for residents of Virgin Gorda and other travelers over many years.
The Trellis Bay Welcome Centre has been delivered under the Tourism subsector of the RDA’s Vibrant and Innovative Economy Sector which is guided by the Outcome Statement: “An improved tourism product that is aesthetically appealing and provides an enhanced experience to our visitors.”
