Contract worth $137m will rebuild schools, transportation, utility services and healthcare facilities.
Jacobs has been contracted by the Virgin Islands Public Finance Authority to deliver programme management services for the ‘Rebuild USVI’ initiative, the US Virgin Islands’ plan to recover and rebuild following hurricanes Irma and Maria.
With a contract value of $137m, Jacobs will work with the US Virgin Islands’ super project management office on simultaneous, critical infrastructure projects, including hospitals, schools, transit corridors, power, water and wastewater utilities.
Jacobs executive vice president Ron Williams said: “Rebuilding is critical for St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. The islands are home to nearly 90,000 people who depend on safe schools, reliable transportation, consistent utility services and access to healthcare. Further, with tourism as the economic engine, it’s essential we prioritise efforts quickly and make the islands’ infrastructure more resilient for the future.”
Jacobs has a proven track record of rebuilding critical infrastructure following severe weather events, incorporating resiliency, social value and equity into its programmes. During the three-year contract, Jacobs will also provide advisory and consulting services focused on future project planning, environmental management, logistics, supply chain and workforce challenges.
The Office of Disaster Recovery (ODR) within the Virgin Islands Public Finance Authority oversees the territory’s $23bn in federal funding awarded after the 2017 hurricanes devasted the territory. Director Adrienne Williams-Octalien emphasised ODR’s commitment to the super project management initiative, highlighting Jacobs’ selection for ‘Rebuild USVI’ based on responsiveness to the request for proposal, demonstrated expertise, pricing, resources, innovation and strategic partnerships.
“We are excited to have Jacobs’ support as we continue working to rebuild a stronger, more resilient community while ensuring full compliance with our funding requirements,” said Williams-Octalien.
