A proposed group dwelling development at Parcel No. 10 Estate La Reine was presented Monday during a virtual public hearing hosted by the Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR).
Xavier A. Acevedo, project manager for Center Island LLC, outlined plans for approximately 23 individual units (dorm-style buildings) designed to create “high-quality, storm-resilient homes that support long-term ownership for the Virgin Islands,” he said. The 16 buildings, intended primarily for Center Island LLC employees, will not be for rent.
Acevedo detailed three types of housing: a three-bedroom, two-bathroom single-family home; a two-bedroom, two-bathroom duplex; and a 16-bedroom apartment-style building.
During the review, Leia LaPlace asked whether any historical resources had been identified on the site. Acevedo said the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) had already conducted a review. SHPO Director Sean Krigger added that while no historical or archaeological resources were found during the initial assessment, the developer must report any discoveries during excavation. “By law, the property owner and the developer will have to notify DPNR,” Krigger said.
Fish & Wildlife Program Manager Rukiya Andrews noted that the project’s green space and retention pond appear appropriately placed but requested additional review of native landscaping guidance to address potential runoff toward a riverine west of the site. Minimal landscaping—mostly low-cut natural grass—is currently proposed.
Environmental Protection Director George Patrick requested more detailed stormwater calculations to ensure the cisterns and retention pond can withstand major weather events. He asked for updated documentation showing expected water flow during heavy rainfall.
Building Permits Director Amanda Jackson-Acosta raised questions about on-site amenities, particularly for families who may occupy the two- and three-bedroom units. She also pressed for clearly marked entrances and exits, sidewalks along the busy highway, designated trash disposal areas, and ADA-compliant parking and walkways. Jackson-Acosta asked for clarification on water and sewer connections; Acevedo said the homes would rely on cisterns, some supplemented by water pumped from a nearby development, with wastewater tied into an existing system. He added that the deed revealed no homeowner’s association restrictions, but would verify again.
Estate La Reine resident Donald Bailey encouraged DPNR to consider the subdivision’s established 20-foot setbacks rather than the 10-foot minimum allowed under R-2 zoning. He also warned that the development could significantly increase traffic at an already tight entrance, urging the addition of sidewalks, a designated bus stop, and improved pedestrian access. Acevedo said Bailey’s estimate of more than 100 vehicles was likely high, but agreed that accessibility and sidewalks should continue to be discussed with Public Works. He noted the property owner has already offered nearby land to help address a dangerous road curve.
Beresford Edwards, president of the Apostolic Faith Mission Board of Trustees, clarified that a homeowner’s association does exist for Estate La Reine and requested that developers submit written requests before using the church’s private road. He also asked for more details on the layout and bedroom counts for the proposed buildings.
Public comments will be accepted until Friday, Dec. 5, and can be sent to leia.laplace@dpnr.vi.gov. After the comment period closes, DPNR will compile the feedback for the applicant to address before completing its permit recommendation for the commissioner’s signature.
