The news of Limetree Bay Refinery’s indefinite closure hit headlines on Monday, June 21, 2021. Local news, including the St. Croix Source, as well as national news sources, like the Washington Post, reported that the refinery will not be re-opening due to financial constraints.
What the Virgin Islands Government is saying
It is reported that the Governor Says Limetree’s Decision to Shut Down Was Not a Surprise. In May, the refinery was forced to temporarily close for 60 days by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Of high importance is the roughly 800 jobs affected by the closure. Governor Bryan says, “This announcement is not something our administration wanted or hoped for, but it is certainly something for which we are prepared. Our Department of Labor has already activated its rapid response teams to help affected workers transition to new employment and or connect them with unemployment benefits.” The Governor has also said that the closure of the refinery will not affect the oil storage terminal, which is a separate entity with about 88 employees.
How does this affect St. Croix real estate?
There is no indication that this news will slow down the real estate industry. St. Croix has experienced a robust market of statesiders investing in and/or moving to island, whether as a primary or secondary home. Environmental impacts are a positive byproduct that is expected with the closing after some recent pollutants were dispersed in local neighborhoods, causing a 60 day shutdown in May.
Team Fedeles will be keeping close tabs on St. Croix real estate trends in order to best advise our buyer and seller clients.
Twice voted Best Real Estate Broker on St. Croix. Coldwell Banker President's Circle three years in a row. 