VITAL AWARDED NPS-RTCA Technical Assistance From the Dept. of Interior

The Virgin Islands Trail Alliance prepared an extensive application, after weeks of gathering support from government and local leaders. The application was submitted on June 30th, 2017 in the hopes of being awarded technical assistance from the NPS, RTCA (River, Trails and Conservation Program). Prior to the hurricanes we realized that with the local governments financial limitations it would be impossible to secure the funds needed to build a new Pedestrian Infrastructure locally, despite the well documented needs in the Territory. We were hopeful that this external source could assist us to locate, apply for and receive the greatly needed revenue to create multi-use pathways on St. Croix. When the Territories were struck with not one, but two Class V Hurricanes in Sept. 2017 and with the resultant devastation, our Vision was thrown into uncertainty. On October 8th 2017 when the letter was received by the VI Trail Alliance we knew that all things are possible. Later we were informed that our application was excellent and though we were competing against all 50 States our application was a top pick.

Since that day VITAL has been working closely with our Regional Director from Sarasota, Florida. Together we have been able to create a plan, identify potential funding sources, apply for grants and rejoice in our successes. This is a beginning and together we forge forward. We are committed to the cause and know that the success that we celebrate today will affect the lives of future generations.