New Nonstop Flight, $300M Resort Boost USVI's Economic Growth

Economic developments in the U.S. Virgin Islands gain momentum with new air service and a luxury resort project.

ST. THOMAS, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

The U.S. Virgin Islands is poised for significant economic advancements following recent announcements by Acting Governor Tregenza A. Roach. During a Government House press briefing, Roach unveiled two key initiatives: the introduction of a nonstop United Airlines service connecting Newark, New Jersey, and St. Croix, and a proposed luxury development project on Water Island with an investment of at least $300 million.

These initiatives align with the Bryan-Roach Administration's objectives to enhance the territory's economic potential, diversify the tourism sector, and attract substantial private investments, ensuring balanced growth across St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Water Island.

Starting October 31, 2026, United Airlines will offer a new direct flight from Newark Liberty International Airport to St. Croix every Saturday. This service reestablishes a crucial link between St. Croix and the northeastern United States, an area vital to the territory's tourism economy.

“This is a major step for St. Croix,” Acting Governor Roach stated. “We have long advocated for the return of a direct flight from the northeastern United States to St. Croix. I want to thank United Airlines for its confidence in the U.S. Virgin Islands and for investing in St. Croix. I also want to thank Commissioner Jennifer Matarangas-King and the Department of Tourism for their continued work to bring this major opportunity home for the territory.”

This new route complements ongoing efforts to boost St. Croix's economy, including a more than 400% increase in cruise ship visits, enhanced infrastructure, and promoting the island's cultural and historical attractions.

Another major initiative is the proposed development on Water Island, which includes transforming property into a luxury resort featuring hotel rooms, a marina, residential spaces, and various amenities. This project, anticipated to generate around $440 million in total investment, is expected to create approximately 200 construction jobs and 300 permanent positions.

“The Water Island project is more than a resort,” Acting Governor Roach commented. “It is a development that combines tourism, infrastructure, employee housing and much-needed community investment.”

This development will also entail significant infrastructure enhancements, such as improvements to roads, utilities, and marine facilities, to maximize public and private benefits.

“Projects of this scale do not come around every day,” Roach stated. “If we want a stronger economy, a broader tax base, better infrastructure and more large-scale private investment in the Virgin Islands, we must be prepared to move serious opportunities forward with care, urgency and confidence.”

Acting Governor Roach emphasized that these developments are integral to the administration's strategy for sustained economic growth beyond recovery.

Additionally, Roach addressed the power outages affecting the St. Thomas-St. John District, acknowledging public frustration and pledging continued pressure on the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority for improved services and transparency.

“I know people are frustrated. I am frustrated too,” Roach said. “The public has every right to expect better.”

He also expressed gratitude towards WAPA employees for their efforts under challenging conditions.

Acting Governor Roach noted Governor Albert Bryan Jr.'s participation in Caribbean Week in New York, an event by the Caribbean Tourism Organization, where he will deliver remarks, promoting the Virgin Islands in a significant tourism and media market.

“As Acting Governor, I am proud to stand before you today on behalf of Governor Bryan and this administration and to say with conviction that the Virgin Islands is moving forward,” Roach concluded.

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