Bryan Urges Legislature to Approve Horse Racing Agreements in November

oct. 28, 2026

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has submitted revised horse racing agreements to the 36th Legislature, urging lawmakers to approve the measure in November to help restore racing in St. Croix and support continued operations on St. Thomas.

The proposed agreements call for approximately $27 million in private investment by SGVI Inc. to rebuild the Randall “Doc” James Racetrack on St. Croix, improve the Clinton E. Phipps Racetrack on St. Thomas and support racing operations in both districts.

The latest revisions include stronger government oversight, mandatory construction inspections and clearer restrictions on video lottery operations at the St. Croix facility.

The agreements also establish requirements for a minimum appraised investment value of $15 million for the completed St. Croix racetrack.

Horse racing at the St. Croix facility has remained suspended since Hurricanes Irma and Maria devastated the track in September 2017.

Bryan said the revised agreements address concerns raised by lawmakers and stakeholders and could create economic opportunities for horsemen, trainers, jockeys, vendors and small businesses.

The governor is urging lawmakers to act during their November session, saying approval would move the Territory closer to restoring horse racing as an important part of Virgin Islands culture and the economy.