The central administration complex in Road Town that houses several government offices. (GIS photo)
The long-delayed Ralph T O’Neal Administration Complex will not be ready for use until late 2026, Communications and Works Minister Kye Rymer confirmed during a recent update on the project.
Rymer acknowledged the public’s frustration, stressing that his ministry is pressing contractors to keep the project moving.
“I recognise the frustration caused by the extended timeline. We share that frustration and are determined to complete the RTOAC as quickly and responsibly as possible. The government remains committed to delivering a safe, modern, and resilient seat of government, and we continue to work closely with all contractors and stakeholders to accelerate progress,” Rymer stated.
Among the works still underway is the installation of a new elevator in the west atrium by Building Construction Management, now running about a year behind schedule. Mould remediation is also in progress, with Biogerm Solutions contracted to handle basement records. “All basement files have been safely removed; cleaning and restoration of those records will begin within two to three weeks,” Rymer said.
That process is scheduled to finish by November 2025.
Design delays have added to the setbacks. OBM International was tasked with delivering interior and external design packages, but the work has slipped to October 2025. “OBMI is behind the adjusted schedule: designs are now expected in October 2025. That delay has shifted the procurement timetable; tendering will now begin in November 2025, moving the overall project timeline back by approximately two months. OBMI has completed about 70% of the design work, and the Ministry continues to press for timely delivery and quality outputs,” Rymer explained.
The ministry now aims to award contracts in December 2025 and mobilise a contractor by January 2026. Substantial completion is targeted for the last quarter of 2026, with full commissioning planned by mid-2027.
Rymer highlighted the financial burden of the delays.
“Taxpayers are currently incurring over $2 million each year in rents and related costs for ministries and departments housed in temporary facilities — including additional fit-outs and office space requirements that were not originally part of the Complex — expenses that will be avoided once staff return to the RTOAC,” he said.
The minister insisted that his ministry is holding consultants and contractors accountable. “Where contractors or consultants are behind schedule, the Ministry is pursuing practical solutions and enforcing contractual measures as needed to keep the project moving. We understand the public’s desire to see this project completed and are doing everything within our authority to deliver results as quickly and efficiently as possible,” he added.
The Administration Complex, originally damaged by hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, has undergone phased restoration since 2019. Completed works include a watertight roof, impact-resistant windows and doors, and major exterior repairs. Despite these advances, full reoccupation is now at least a year later than previously announced, extending the government’s reliance on costly rented offices across the territory.
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