Bryan leads 'unprecedented' push for affordable homeownership in the USVI

Bryan leads ‘unprecedented’ push for affordable homeownership in the USVI

CHRISTIANSTED — Under the determined leadership of Governor Albert Bryan Jr., the Virgin Islands government announced Wednesday remarkable advancements under the VI Slice Moderate-Income Homeownership Program.

This pioneering initiative underscores the Bryan-Roach Administration’s unwavering commitment to dismantling barriers to homeownership and fostering long-term economic stability among Virgin Islanders.

Since its inception, the VI Slice Moderate-Income Homeownership Program has empowered 20 families with the tools to purchase their first homes by providing $1.87 million in grants. Complementing that is $5.87 million in mortgage loans made by local participating lenders to assist low-income families to become eligible for loans. These measures are crucial steps toward rectifying the disparities in housing access within the community.

“Today, we celebrate the tangible results of the VI Slice Moderate-Income Homeownership Program. It is a testament to our dedication to transforming the lives of Virgin Island families,” Governor Bryan said. “This initiative is more than a program; it’s a promise to our citizens that we will fight for their right to own a home and secure their financial future.”

Governor Bryan has consistently prioritized homeownership as a critical driver of community vitality and individual prosperity. “The path to homeownership is fraught with challenges, but we are clearing the way, ensuring that the dream of owning a home is not a privilege for the few but a reality for the many,” the governor added.

The momentum continues with four additional applicants nearing the closing phase, signaling sustained interest and need for such transformative programs.

Building upon this foundation, the governor is also championing the “Own a Lot, Build a Home” initiative.

This program, spearheaded by the U.S. Virgin Islands Office of Disaster Recovery, extends another lifeline to families striving to construct their personalized, resilient homes on government-subsidized land.

“The ‘Own a Lot, Build a Home’ initiative is a strategic expansion of our efforts to put homeownership within reach of every Virgin Islander. It’s about empowerment, sustainability, and resilience,” Bryan said. “This initiative not only promises affordable options but also supports families in building homes designed to withstand the challenges posed by climate change.

Together, the VI Slice and “Own a Lot, Build a Home” programs illustrate the Bryan-Roach Administration’s proactive agenda to fortify the economic and social fabric of the Virgin Islands through robust, accessible homeownership solutions.

Governor Bryan urges all eligible citizens to seize these opportunities to lay down roots and build secure futures.

For more details on how to apply and begin your journey toward homeownership, please visit
vislice.com and usviodr.com.

About the Programs:

The VI Slice Moderate-Income Homeownership Program offers financial assistance to bridge the gap between mortgage approvals and the actual cost of homes, prioritizing moderate-income families in their quest for homeownership.

The Own a Lot, Build a Home First-Time Homebuyers Assistance Program provides zero percent interest forgivable loans for the construction of single-family homes on undeveloped land, emphasizing support for building resilient, cost-effective family homes.