Commissioner Nelson Petty Jr. is encouraged by the community-minded individuals who have partnered with the department on projects to improve the overall quality of life in the territory.

Vandal Percival, owner of Voneto’s Trucking & Equipment Services, had extra paint on hand and reached out to DPW to donate his services. On Aug. 2, he volunteered his time and equipment to refresh the crosswalk at the Ulla F. Muller Elementary School. This act of kindness made the roadways safer for residents and pedestrians to traverse.

Local artist Heidi Gonzales noticed a blank retaining wall in the Crown Mountain area and inquired with the department about beautifying the space. Gonzales started painting the mural on Aug. 12 and will continue until completion. She hopes to raise awareness for the endangered sea turtle epidemic.

“These people took their private resources and invested their personal time to make our island a better place to live,” said Commissioner Petty. “The government will do its part, but if everyone chips in, the result will be overwhelming.”

These initiatives highlight some of the many ways individuals or businesses can lend their support in moving the territory forward. Public-private partnerships promote connections and bridge the gap between the many initiatives the Department of Public Works wants to accomplish and how private partners can push these projects forward. It also encourages the community to take responsibility and make tangible improvements to their surroundings.

The department encourages individuals or businesses who may wish to volunteer time, services or resources to the Department of Public Works to contact Communications Specialist Renée Exius.

Follow DPW on Facebook @usvidpw and @vitranusvi. People can also log on to www.dpw.vi.gov or www.vitranvi.com to stay abreast of all things V.I. Public Works.