Road Town’s possibilities
The International Museum Day activities on Friday provided a shining example of Road Town’s potential.
The day included history tours of Main Street; a market in the Sir Olva Georges Plaza; and a re-enactment of the 1949 march that led to the restoration of the Legislative Council.
Each of these activities was a success, and all participants deserve kudos, as do the organisers at the Culture Department and the Ministry of Education and Culture.
More importantly, such activities could be continued and expanded in the long term to help turn the capital city into a more attractive destination for residents and tourists alike.
The Main Street tours, for instance, showcased the fascinating history of the buildings that many people pass every day without a second thought. If the tours were held regularly, they could be added to students’ curricula and offered as a regular option for visitors.
Perhaps, too, a booklet could be published to encourage self-guided exploration. Such a project could build on the government’s recent installation of plaques at some historic sites.
On Friday, further food for thought came from the traditional market in the Sir Olva Georges Plaza. In a scene that recalled the Road Town of 50 years ago, VI vendors sold wares ranging from traditional food to contemporary merchandise.
A feeling of camaraderie was palpable: Attendees young and old chatted and laughed with one another as they shopped and listened to music.
A similar market hosted regularly in the square would be a major boon to the capital. More so, if the police headquarters were relocated as planned and its building used for the purpose.
Now, the plaza gets relatively little use on a day-to-day basis, which is unfortunate given its obvious potential.
Another important lesson from Friday’s events was the closure of Main Street to vehicular traffic, which dramatically changed the road’s atmosphere for the better: For once, it was easily walk-able and pleasant.
The community, then, should consider permanently closing Main Street to vehicles, as recommended in the past by planning consultants.
At a time when the global tourism industry is increasingly competitive and the Virgin Islands is struggling with quality-of-life issues, rethinking Road Town is imperative. The Friday events suggested a way forward.
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