The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) has awarded two contracts for repair works on the A. O. Shirley Recreation Ground.
C. W. General Maintenance was awarded the contract to design, supply and install stadium lighting in the amount of $575,437.50 while Caribbean Environmental Restoration Limited was awarded the contract to repair the grandstand, gym and sickbay in the amount of 284,795.64.
Mr. Cliff Williams, owner of both companies, a former athlete and present-day coach inked the contracts with the RDA on January 30. Minister with the responsibility for Sports Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley witnessed on behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands.
Honourable Wheatley thanked the RDA for the good work it continues to do in leading the procurement process and ensuring the recovery process is proceeding in a visible manner.
Minister Wheatley said he sees the lighting as very significant as it will help athletes maximize time spent on the field particularly during the winter months. Repairs to the grandstand will provide seating and address safety concerns when persons utilize that area.
President of the BVI Athletics Association Steve Augustine expressed his appreciation on behalf of the athletic association and sports family in the Territory.
“This year we are looking at the possibility of doing something greater on the track and therefore our seating capacity comes into play,” He said, adding, “This is a much-needed project, a long overdue project, but the timing is good. We are thankful, we are grateful, and we intend to utilize every square inch of what is going to be repaired.”
Mr. Williams was the sole applicant who submitted tenders for both procurement opportunities. He said he was thankful for the opportunity to develop the sporting facility and contribute towards the recovery efforts.
The contract signing signals the continued improvement of the Territory’s premier training facility which serves as the home to track and field events, the training ground for athletes and the sports arena for soccer, rugby and football.
The contracts were executed under the National Competitive Bidding process and awarded following a detailed evaluation of the technical and financial submissions.
The stadium lighting and the repairs to the grandstand, gym and sick bay are two of eight activities of the broader A.O. Shirley Recreation Ground project. Five activities have been completed namely the installation of the Track, Bathrooms, Wall and Gates (External Perimeter Fence), Bathroom Groundworks & Drainage and the Internal Trackside Fence. Repair works for the Pavilion will be sent to tender shortly. RDA projects are divided into activities to better manage and track project progress.
This is a Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture project which is being implemented with support of the RDA and in partnership with the Recreation Committee. It is jointly funded by the Government of the Virgin Islands, the BVI Olympic Committee and the BVI Athletic Association.
