Gov. Charles W. Turnbull has authorized the development of a vending area to allow four long-time vendors at the Valdemar Hill Drive scenic overlook to continue selling there.
The overlook reopened Friday, Dec. 8, after a year and a half construction period. A release Thursday from Government House said the design concept for the vendors' space "will be fully integrated into the very attractive look of the newly dedicated overview and will be aesthetically pleasing," according to Turnbull's instructions.
The overlook has parking for six cars and five Safari buses, plus accommodations for handicapped parking and public restrooms. The site overlooks Charlotte Amalie Harbor.
The government action was in contrast to its recent ejection of vendors from Drake's Seat less than a mile away on the other side of the hill overlooking Magens Bay.
The approval came after Turnbull met with Housing, Parks and Recreation Commissioner Ira Hobson, who said, "Governor Turnbull believes it is the government's responsibility to ensure that everyone be given the opportunity to participate in tourism, the territory's major industry."