SENATOR BOLQUES CELEBRATES USDA WAIVER FOR ST. CROIX FARMERS IN ACTION

 Commends Honorable Delegate Plaskett, STX Farmers in Action, and partners for collaborative success 

St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands – Senator Angel L. Bolques, Jr. is proud to join the Virgin Islands in celebrating the U.S. Department of Agriculture's approval of a waiver request that will unlock critical funding for the restoration of water infrastructure at the historic Estate Bethlehem site. This waiver paves the way for the St. Croix Farmers in Action (FIA) to rehabilitate a million-gallon cistern, bolstering sustainable agriculture and water security for the island's farming community. "This milestone reflects over 18 months of dedicated collaboration, beginning in late 2023 when our office joined the efforts with the Honorable Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett, USDA Rural Development, and the dedicated members of St. Croix Farmers in Action. Together, we engaged in meetings, advocacy, brainstorming funding solutions, navigating regulatory hurdles, and providing strategic support from the ground up," said Senator Bolques. Senator Bolques personally extends thanks to Congresswoman Plaskett and her office for their tireless advocacy and support on behalf of FIA's Community Project Funding request and to USDA-Rural Development for recognizing the urgency and merit of the project by granting the requested waiver. "This achievement reflects what is possible when we come together with purpose and commitment," Bolques continued. "From the strategic planning stages through coordination and advocacy efforts, my office has stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the Delegates Office and Farmers in Action to help bring this vision closer to reality. I remain fully committed to supporting initiatives that empower our local farmers, preserve our cultural heritage, and strengthen our infrastructure." The Senator also recognized the broader revitalization efforts at Estate Bethlehem, including his ongoing support for the Crucian Coconut Festival—an initiative aimed at celebrating Virgin Islands culture and economic opportunity through agriculture and community-driven development. "Today's success belongs to all of us," Senator Bolques concluded. ###