The Virgin Islands Department of Public Works is seeking $31.6 million in local funding for fiscal year 2027 to maintain roads, transit and infrastructure while leveraging federal transportation investments.

The Virgin Islands Department of Justice is seeking nearly $26.2 million for fiscal year 2027, warning lawmakers Tuesday that persistent staffing shortages, mounting caseloads and limited resources continue to strain its ability to prosecute crimes, investigate public corruption and provide essential legal services across the territory.

The Virgin Islands’ top judge asked lawmakers Thursday to increase funding for the judicial branch and tie future court budgets to a fixed share of the General Fund budget, arguing that years of constrained appropriations have placed sustained pressure on the courts.

For over 90 years, the streets of Frenchtown have come alive each July with French flags, music, food, and community fellowship, honoring the neighborhood’s deep French-Caribbean roots. That longstanding tradition continues Tuesday, July 14, as the Frenchtown Civic Organization hosts its annual Bastille Day Celebration beginning at 6:00 p.m. at the French Heritage Museum and the Joseph Aubain Field parking lot.