The Committee on Disaster Recovery, Infrastructure, and Planning convened on June 16, 2025, to discuss the ongoing Street Addressing Initiative (SAI), a significant project aimed at establishing a standardized addressing system across the U.S. Virgin Islands. This initiative, which has been in development for over a decade, is now in its final territory-wide phase, with the goal of enhancing navigation, emergency response, and overall community connectivity.

Chris George, the administrator for the Lieutenant Governor's office, presented a comprehensive overview of the SAI's progress, highlighting its historical context and the collaborative efforts that have brought it to fruition. The initiative has evolved through several phases, beginning with a partnership with the University of the Virgin Islands in 2012, and has included pilot testing in key districts. The current phase aims to finalize the addressing system, which is crucial for improving services such as emergency response, mail delivery, and utility management.

Key impacts of the SAI were emphasized, particularly its potential to streamline emergency services and enhance public safety. George noted that a standardized addressing system would allow for more efficient dispatching of emergency responders, reducing confusion during critical situations. The initiative also aims to boost local businesses by improving their visibility and accessibility through proper addressing.

The committee discussed the importance of community involvement in the naming of roads, with George encouraging residents to participate actively in the process. He highlighted that approximately 60% of roads in St. Thomas and St. Croix remain unnamed, and community engagement is essential for overcoming this hurdle. The SAI has already seen success in areas like St. John, where a significant percentage of roads have been named.

Funding for the SAI has been primarily sourced from federal grants, with a total of $5.3 million allocated for the current phase. George assured the committee that the project would not burden the local government’s general fund. The initiative has also fostered partnerships with various stakeholders, including local organizations and government agencies, to ensure a collaborative approach to implementation.

In conclusion, the committee expressed optimism about the SAI's potential to transform the Virgin Islands' infrastructure and improve the quality of life for residents. The project is on track for completion by January 2026, with ongoing efforts to install street signage and finalize the addressing system. The committee emphasized the need for continued public awareness and participation to ensure the initiative's success, marking a significant step forward in the territory's development.