Land-use planning is an integral component of any attempt to either change or preserve a community’s aesthetic or functional character. A landuse plan provides direction for future development that is then implemented through a development code. This is a best practice for natural hazard risk management by considering disaster risks and their spatial distribution to steer more sustainable land development

A Comprehensive Plan for the Virgin Islands was completed by the Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR) in the 90’s but has not been accepted by the legislature or the public. The zoning code, which was adopted in the 70’s, has only received minor updates – such as a spot rezone. In 2014, a team of consultants led by Rutgers University completed an update of the zoning code for DPNR, which has not yet been adopted. There are no permanent planning staff assigned to St. John, and planning staff for the entire territory is limited to only one planner and an administrative assistant on St. Croix and only two planning technicians on St. Thomas.

IMPLEMENTATION STEPS: 1. Review the two documents described in the background section and prioritize sections relevant to the territory today, as appropriate. 2. Determine which sections of this compiled document need further updating. 3. Review the outreach process notes from the Rutgers effort on to identify issues with the current zoning code and associatied issues, then open a new dialogue for a new comprehensive planning process for 2020 and beyond. 4. Form a Stakeholder Advisory Committee,

Planning and Natural Resources; Coral Bay Community Council Alignment: IS, Econ, Housing, CPCB Cost: < $100,000 Timeline: < One Year