Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. has introduced legislation to the 36th Legislature authorizing an agreement that would rebuild the Randall “Doc” James Racetrack on St. Croix and restore horse racing to the territory without requiring additional taxpayer funding.
The proposed redevelopment marks a potential turning point for an industry that has languished for nearly a decade on St. Croix and could generate revenue and jobs across the Virgin Islands, including spillover economic benefits for St. Thomas businesses and residents.
The racetrack project traces back to a 2016 contract signed under the previous administration. Since taking office in 2019, Bryan’s administration has worked to navigate obstacles and secure an agreement that advances the project while protecting territorial interests.
Recently, the Government of the Virgin Islands regained legal control of the racetrack through a resolution with VIGL Operations, LLC, the operator that held the previous development agreement. The collaboration between government and the private entity cleared a major hurdle that had stalled progress for years.
“For nearly a decade, the people of St. Croix have been anticipating the redevelopment of Randall ‘Doc’ James Racetrack,” Bryan said during a Government House press briefing, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to finding solutions that benefit Virgin Islanders.
The revised agreement structure aims to protect public interests while enabling private investment in the facility’s reconstruction and modernization. By financing the project without direct government expenditure, the deal avoids burdening already strained territorial budgets.
Horse racing has deep roots in USVI culture and history. The sport once generated significant economic activity, employment, and tourism appeal. The Horse Racing Commission, which oversees the industry across St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, has maintained regulatory oversight and established standards to ensure the integrity and safety of racing operations.
A functioning racetrack on St. Croix could revitalize that economic engine. Beyond direct jobs at the facility, horse racing attracts visitors, supports ancillary businesses such as hospitality, transportation, and retail, and generates tax revenue for the territory.
The ripple effects would likely extend to St. Thomas. Increased tourism and sporting events on St. Croix typically boost travel between islands, benefiting hotels, restaurants, ferry services, and shops across the territory.
The legislation now awaits legislative action. Lawmakers must evaluate the terms of the government’s agreement with VIGL Operations and determine whether the deal adequately protects public assets while enabling realistic private investment.
Industry observers note that restoring operational racing requires more than legal authority and facility reconstruction. Successful racetrack operations depend on thoroughbred availability, experienced jockeys and handlers, stable purse funding, and a customer base—both local and tourist.
The territory’s Horse Racing Commission will play a critical role in ensuring that any revitalized operation meets safety, integrity, and best-practice standards. The commission’s mission emphasizes making horse racing in the USVI a premier Caribbean destination while preserving the sport’s cultural legacy.
Bryan’s administration views the racetrack redevelopment as part of broader economic diversification efforts for St. Croix, which has faced economic headwinds in recent years. Adding a cultural and recreational asset that attracts visitors and creates employment aligns with territorial development priorities.
If the legislature approves the agreement and reconstruction proceeds, residents and policymakers will watch closely to see whether the revitalized racetrack delivers the promised economic and employment benefits and whether horse racing can regain its former prominence in USVI life.
