ROAD TOWN, Tortola, Virgin Islands — Residents, businesses and motorists in the Sea Cows Bay area are expected to see some relief from months of construction-related disruptions when asphalt paving begins on Friday, July 10.

The Ministry of Communications and Works announced that paving operations will start near the Anglican Church before progressing westward along the roadway. The first phase of paving is intended to reduce the dust, uneven road surfaces and difficult driving conditions that have affected the area during ongoing road improvement works.

Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye M. Rymer, acknowledged the inconvenience experienced by the public throughout the construction period and said the ministry is committed to easing those challenges while the project continues.

“We understand the considerable inconvenience that residents, businesses and motorists have experienced throughout this phase of the project, particularly due to dust and traffic disruptions,” Rymer said. “While some construction-related challenges will remain as work progresses, we are delivering on our commitment to provide meaningful relief. Beginning July 10, we will lay the first asphalt layer to stabilise the roadway and significantly reduce the dust that has affected daily life and travel in the area.”

According to the ministry, the project will use a two-layer paving system designed to produce a durable roadway capable of serving the Territory for years to come.

The first stage involves laying a three-inch asphalt base course to stabilise the road surface and significantly reduce dust while contractors continue critical infrastructure works. These works include the installation of sidewalks, curbs and drainage systems. Once those elements are completed, a final two-inch asphalt surface course will be applied to complete the roadway.

Rymer said the Government’s goal extends beyond providing a temporary fix.

“Our objective is not simply to provide a temporary solution, but to deliver a modern, resilient road network that will benefit residents for decades to come,” he said. “Achieving that goal requires us to address critical elements such as drainage, road foundations and other supporting infrastructure alongside the paving works. We appreciate the public’s continued patience and cooperation as we balance the need for timely delivery with our commitment to quality and long-term value.”

The ministry also advised motorists that although the first layer of asphalt will significantly improve driving conditions, it may not immediately extend to the final curb height or full roadway width in some sections. Officials explained that this is necessary to allow ongoing civil works to continue as part of the broader road improvement project.

Construction is expected to continue after the initial paving phase until all supporting infrastructure and the final asphalt surface have been completed.