VIPA Announces Retirement of Executive Director Carlton Dowe, Ava Penn Named Interim Executive Director at Special Board Meeting
- Virgin Islands Port Authority
- 51 minutes ago
- 2 min read
For Immediate Release
March 27, 2026
[U.S. Virgin Islands] - The Virgin Islands Port Authority (VIPA) Board of Governors appointed Ms. Ava Penn as the interim executive director during a special board meeting held today in St. Croix. VIPA Executive Director Carlton Dowe submitted a letter to the Board on March 20, announcing his intention to retire, effective April 10, 2026. Dowe is currently on leave, so Penn will serve as Interim Executive Director effectively immediately. She will manage the Authority’s daily operations until the VIPA Board of Governors appoints a permanent Executive Director. Penn has over 30 years of government service and served as the Director of Financial Affairs and the Acting Director of Property Management at VIPA.
Dowe has provided leadership in the Authority’s aviation and marine operations since July 2019 and previously from 2013 through 2016, supporting the development and modernization efforts at the U.S. Virgin Islands’ ports. VIPA thanked Dowe for his years of dedicated service and contributions to the Virgin Islands’ transportation infrastructure and economic development.
At today’s special meeting, the board also:
Authorized Task Order No. 4, which amends the contract for professional services between VIPA, Frasca & Associates, LLC, and their subcontractors. This amendment provides additional services and compensation for the P3 transition period of the airport P3 procurement project, effective from January 1, 2026, through September 30, 2026. VIPA will be reimbursed for these costs via the P3 transition fee.
Insurance coverage limits of up to $60,000,000 for property insurance (including catastrophic perils and fire) were approved for renewal, effective April 1, 2026. The pricing for this renewal will not exceed $5,633,504, and terrorism coverage of up to $100,000,000 will be secured for $11,235. The Board also authorized payment of associated fees and surplus lines taxes, estimated at 5% of the premium, or $282,237 (this amount is in addition to the premium). VIPA will cover the total cost of $5,926,976, plus finance charges associated with obtaining premium financing in monthly installments.
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Media Contact:
Monifa Brathwaite, Public Information Officer
Office: (340) 774-1629
Email: info@viport.com Website: www.viport.com