Bryan secures 2,469 acres for ‘historic’ Annaly Bay parkland expansion

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and the Virgin Islands Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR) have completed one of the largest land acquisitions in territorial history, securing 2,469 acres at Maroon Ridge and Annaly Bay on St. Croix.

The $69 million purchase, finalized Aug. 15, was funded through the U.S. Department of Commerce and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration under the Inflation Reduction Act.

The newly acquired property will expand the Territorial Parks System and be managed by DPNR’s Division of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas.

“This investment is about conservation and about honoring the struggles of those who came before us,” Bryan said. “It ensures that future generations of Virgin Islanders will have access to lands that tell our story, reflect our heritage and strengthen our pride.”

DPNR Commissioner Jean-Pierre L. Oriol said the acquisition shows the governor’s commitment to protecting the territory’s environment.

“Governor Bryan made expansion of our parks system a priority, and this purchase delivers on that vision,”

Oriol said. “This is proof of what can be achieved when federal partners, local government and community advocates work together.”