A Cape Cod Firm Will Lead Development, Resource Protection In Virgin Islands

SANDWICH, MA — An environmental consulting firm based on Cape Cod is set to lead the implementation of a land and water use plan for the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Horsley Witten Group, a firm specializing in "sustainable and resilient design solutions", announced the approval of the Comprehensive Land and Water Use Plan for the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI).

Drafted in collaboration with the Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR), the plan "provides a framework for sustainable development in the U.S. territory while prioritizing environmental preservation, resilience to climate change, and community equity," officials said.

Horsley Witten officials said this is the first plan of its kind to be adopted by the legislature of the Virgin Islands after "decades of analysis and discussion, outlines recommendations for regulatory reform, housing affordability, and investment in critical infrastructure."

"It emphasizes strengthening the connection between environmental sustainability and economic development, including sustainable tourism, cultural and historical preservation, and local agriculture," a news release said.

“The Comprehensive Land and Water Use Plan is a historic milestone for the USVI, creating a long-term vision for the future of each island,” said Nate Kelly, President of The Horsley Witten Group. “With the policy framework in place, we now have the foundation to implement real, lasting change for the communities of St. John, St. Thomas, and St. Croix – change that celebrates the beauty of island ecosystems and fosters resilience for future generations.”

Officials with the firm shared a few key components of the plan, which include strategies for:

• Sustainable Development: Protecting sensitive ecosystems, reducing flood risks, and revitalizing historic mixed-use centers.
• Water and Coastal Management: Protecting limited water resources, shorelines, beaches, mangroves, and marine habitats.
• Climate Resilience: Adapting to sea level rise, extreme weather, and shifting coastlines.
• Social Equity: Promoting fair access to resources and opportunities, with an emphasis on empowering local families and businesses.

In addition to addressing resource conservation and climate adaptation, the plan shines a light on the economic legacy of colonialism, housing affordability and transportation, aiming to balance development needs with environmental stewardship and equity, officials said.

"This plan is about balancing competing needs for land and water while protecting sensitive areas and historic sites," said DPNR Commissioner Jean-Pierre Oriol. "It incorporates the voices of over 1,500 Virgin Islanders who participated in town hall-style discussion, ensuring the final plan is equitable, and aligned with the territory's long-term goals. This is not just a policy document - it's a guide for the future of our communities."

Horsley Witten Group planners developed the comprehensive framework for land and water use through an 18-month community engagement campaign, including 15 town hall meetings, dozens of interviews and numerous work sessions with residents, government agencies and civic leaders.

Additional information on the Horsley Witten Group’s USVI Comprehensive Land and Water Use Plan is available here.