Contributing today for a better tomorrow.

GERS UPDATE

July 2025 Issue


Relevant news, updates, and resources for your retirement planning!

Message from the Administrator/CEO

Angel E. Dawson, Jr.

Dear Esteemed Readers,


As we approach the end of the third quarter, we’re excited to share the progress made with our V3locity (Pension Administration Software) migration and other key initiatives at GERS. We’ve successfully concluded the first phase of the V3locity migration, which involved a thorough assessment of our current processes and implementing the necessary changes to smoothly transition to the new environment. This phase has laid a strong foundation for future enhancements, and the migration continues to progress alongside a comprehensive change management process. We have already begun the second phase. While these efforts unfold, we encourage all members, including actives and retirees, to update their personal information, such as email addresses and phone numbers. This is particularly important as we transition to a multi-factor authentication system to better safeguard member data.


Additionally, we’re pleased to announce the launch of the Limited Retiree Personal Loans Program, which began on June 2, 2025. As of July 4, 2025, 339 retirees took advantage of the program, totalling approximately $2.5 million.


From a financial standpoint, we are on track with our budget, having spent 56% of our administrative budget for GERS and just 38% for Havensight Mall this fiscal year. This demonstrates our commitment to prudent spending and fiscal responsibility, especially in light of ongoing market volatility. Despite ongoing challenges in the market, the GERS portfolio remains stable, maintaining its value at the same level as this time last year.


While we remain on track with our budget and the portfolio remains stable, despite the market volatility, we are not entirely out of the woods. GERS is still awaiting approximately $90 million, due to a shortfall in the Rum Excise Tax Cover for fiscal years 2024 and 2025.


We are happy to report that ongoing projects at the Havensight Mall remain on schedule. The Hampton by Hilton hotel is now 95% complete. Guest reservations are open, and guests can check in starting September 5, 2025. The space also includes a large green space that will serve as a community hub for events, providing a welcoming space for both residents and visitors.


As we close the third quarter, it’s clear that GERS is making significant strides forward. We are committed to improving services for our members and creating a more efficient, secure, and responsive environment for everyone. We appreciate your continued support and engagement as we work toward an even brighter future.


Best regards,

Angel E. Dawson, Jr.

GERS Meeting with Office of the Governor

Housing Crisis Meeting with the Office of the Governor, ODR, and VIHFA

On Wednesday, May 14, 2025, a meeting took place between Governor Albert Bryan Jr., Virgin Islands Office of Disaster Recovery (ODR) Director Adrienne Williams-Octalien, Government Employees' Retirement System (GERS) Administrator and CEO Angel Dawson Jr., GERS Board Chairman Dwane Callwood, GERS Board Vice-Chair Leona Smith, and Virgin Islands Finance Housing Authority (VIHFA) Director Eugene Jones to discuss the growing housing crisis in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The meeting was an important step toward addressing the lack of affordable housing options for residents of the territory. While no final decisions were made, the efforts are considered preliminary, marking an important move in the right direction.


During the meeting, discussions focused on VIHFA’s support on two projects, including a plan to develop GERS' land in Estate Hoffman and Nullyberg. The plan proposes a mixed-use development aimed at providing affordable homeownership opportunities for local residents. The goal is to create housing that is not only accessible but also financially attainable for those facing the high costs of affordable housing in the territory.


GERS also owns another track of land in Coakley Bay on St. Croix. Preliminary development plans for residential housing on the Coakley Bay property were drawn up back in 2014.


GERS Administrator and CEO Dawson expressed the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors. “The housing crisis in the Virgin Islands is one of the most significant challenges we face as a community,” Dawson said. “GERS is committed to playing a vital role in addressing this issue. Our involvement in the development of these properties aligns with our mission to provide long-term value and opportunities that will ultimately benefit members and the community overall.


Governor Bryan emphasized the critical nature of the issue, highlighting the dire need for affordable building sites, particularly in the St. Thomas/St. John (STT/STJ) district. The average construction cost for housing ranges from $500 to $800 per square foot, making even small homes well beyond the reach of many residents. A typical home, therefore, could easily exceed $600,000, underscoring the urgency for finding viable solutions.


While discussions remain in the early stages and no formal decisions have been made, this meeting represents an important first step toward tackling the housing crisis and improving the quality of life for Virgin Islanders. With continued collaboration between GERS, VIHFA, and government officials, the future holds promise for more affordable housing opportunities in the territory.

Photos from the Office of the Governor's Facebook page

V3locity Migration, Improving Member Experience

We are excited to share another update about the V3locity migration, a significant step forward in improving the way we serve our members. Our dedicated team is actively working to assess and enhance current processes to ensure we’re providing more efficient and streamlined services. This migration is designed to simplify how members interact with the Government Employees' Retirement System (GERS), bringing convenience and accessibility right to your fingertips.


The V3locity migration involves a thorough review of existing procedures, with staff engaged in meetings and discussions to identify areas for improvement. By implementing more effective practices, our goal is to ensure that members receive the best possible service, quickly and seamlessly. This includes a comprehensive Organizational Change Management Process, which helps ensure that everyone is aligned and on the same page regarding the changes being made. We are committed to making these transitions as smooth as possible, with the focus on maximizing efficiency and improving the member experience.


One of the key features of the V3locity migration is the shift to a more digital-first approach. Processes that you once completed in person or via mail will be available online through the Member Self-Service portal. Member Self-Service will become your one-stop shop for managing your GERS account. Whether you're an active member or retiree, the portal will provide you with a convenient, easy-to-use platform to track and manage your retirement account.


To take full advantage of these online services, we encourage all members to update their personal information, particularly their email address and phone number. Keeping this information current is especially important for multi-factor authentication, which will provide an added layer of security to protect your account.


As we move toward a more modern, efficient way of managing retirement benefits, the V3locity migration will be a game-changer. We’re confident that Member Self-Service will not only save you time but also enhance your overall experience with GERS.

GERS on the Move

Employees of the Year

On May 7, 2025, the Division of Personnel Employee of the Year event was held at the Westin on St. Thomas, with St. Croix employees and their loved ones also in attendance. It was a memorable day filled with celebration.

St. Croix Employee of the Year - Ernestina De Sena O'Reilly (left), Administrator and CEO Angel E. Dawson (middle), and St. Thomas Employee of the Year - Atoya Webster (right)

From left to right: Dannica Thomas, Director of Communications, Stakeholder Engagement, and Organizational Effectiveness; St. Thomas Employee of the Year - Atoya Webster, Customer Service Rep; Angel E. Dawson, Administrator and CEO; St. Croix Employee of the Year - Ernestina De Sena O'Reilly, Customer Service Rep; and Michele Nico, Deputy Administrator

Group picture courtesy of the Legislature of the US Virgin Islands

Customer Service

Do you have questions about your membership, service credit, retirement eligibility, online self-service registration, or GERS Educational Webinars? Get in touch with Customer Service today. We are here to serve you.


Call us directly at 340-693-3939 or send an email to customercare@usvigers.com. Allow up to 24 hours for a response to emails sent outside of regular office hours.



The Customer Service Team provides real-time communication via telephone, email, and in person. Overall, the team's goal is to provide you with accurate, courteous, accessible, and responsive service.


Follow us on social media for the latest updates.


Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gersvi1959

X (Twitter): https://www.twitter.com/gersvi1959

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gersvi1959

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@governmentofthevirginislan1118

Member Self-Service

IMPORTANT: As we continue our V3locity migration efforts, please ensure that your phone number and email address are up-to-date for multi-factor authentication. Keeping this information current is essential for the security and safety of your account. Also, remember to update your beneficiaries on file.


Are you an active member or retiree of the GERS without a Member Self-Service (MSS) Account? What are you waiting for? MSS was created just for you!

If you've forgotten your password, please contact Customer Service by telephone at (340) 693-3939 or via email at customercare@usvigers.com.


To sign up, please refer to the following instructions.

Go to www.usvigers.com and click on "Member Self-Service"

Enter your Username and Password and click on Log In

If you do not have a Member Self-Service account, click on Register and be guided by the prompts (enter your Social Security Number, Last Name, Date of Birth, and then click on Validate.)

To update your primary address, phone number(s) and email(s), click on "Change" under "Contact Information".

You can also update your personal information by selecting "View/Update Your Personal Information" under "You and Your Beneficiaries".

Annual Statements

All annual statements have been sent via email to active members from email V3locity SMTP - v3smtp@usvigers.com.


Remember, your 2025 statement will include your and employer's contributions as of January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024. Please review your Annual Statement and report any inaccuracies to the Customer Service Office.


To access or print your Annual Statement, click on Review Your Document History under You and Your Beneficiaries in Member Self-Service.


To ensure you receive your future Annual Statement, log into your Member Self-Service and update your email and mailing address.

If you prefer a hard copy of your Annual Statement, from 2026 onward, please send an email to our Customer Service office at customercare@usvigers.com.

How to Read your Annual Statement Video Below

Click play icon (▶️) to watch

Are you Vested? Know Your Options

Understanding your vested status is key to securing your retirement benefits. If you are vested, you have met the minimum service or time requirements to be eligible for retirement benefits. Additional retirement requirements will apply.


If you are not vested, it's important to know how many more years you need to work and the minimum age to be eligible to retire based on your tier.


We've provided some examples for Tier I and Tier II regular and safety/hazardous employment. In each instance, 30 years of credited service was used in the examples.

Firstly, Know Your Tier!

Are You Vested?

Tier I Retirement Calculation Examples

Tier I Regular Employment

Tier I Safety/Hazardous Employment

Tier II Retirement Calculation Examples

Tier II Regular Employment

Tier II Safety/Hazardous Employment

15 Ways to Protect Yourself from Fraud

Learn how to avoid scams and lower your risk of money loss and identity theft

By Amy Nofziger and Mark Fetterhoff, AARP

Scams are rampant these days, with criminals stealing a reported $12.5 billion from Americans in 2024, according to the Federal Trade Commission. And that’s likely a fraction of actual losses, because fraud is notoriously underreported. But there are ways to protect yourself, including staying up on the latest schemes and following the advice listed below. Also consider adding the AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline phone number, 877-908-3360, into your phone right now, so you’ll have it if you need to call us to report a scam ­attempt or get more advice on how to prevent scams and identity theft.


1. Stop mail fraud at the mailbox


Informed Delivery is a free service from the U.S. Postal Service. The agency emails photos of letter-size mail expected to be delivered to you that day or shortly after. This is a great way to be sure that nothing is stolen from your mailbox by ID thieves. Sign up at InformedDelivery.usps.com.


Pick up mail as quickly as possible after it’s delivered, and always take your outgoing mail directly to the post office. A hot fraud now is scammers stealing checks from mailboxes, erasing the ink and using them to steal from bank accounts.


2. Halt scammers at your front door


Consider installing a video camera; they are increasingly less expensive, and they’re easy to install. If you don’t recognize a visitor, don’t answer. If you find yourself being pressured to buy or donate, have a refusal script ready (consider taping it near the door) that says, “I do not do business at my door. Please leave me something to review. If I’m interested, I’ll call you.”


Be wary of people posing as utility workers who show up unannounced. Don’t allow anyone into your house without an appointment.


3. Prevent garbage theft


Shred any papers that contain private information (financial statements, bills, shipping receipts) before putting them out for pickup to avoid identity theft. Don’t want to invest in a good cross-cut shredder? Many communities have shredding events or permanent drop-off sites. Get in the habit of dropping off your accumulated documents once every few months.


4. Watch for credit card skimming


Card skimming, in which the criminal affixes a credit card reader on top of a legitimate card reader at a store or gas station, is estimated to cause up to $1 billion in losses annually. When you are paying at a gas station or other point-of-sale location, inspect the device for loose/broken/scratched machinery to make sure someone hasn’t tampered with it. If you are unsure, notify the cashier and pay using an alternative method.​


5. Monitor your credit report


Routinely check yours (many credit card companies provide it for free; if not, go to AnnualCreditReport.com or call 877-322-8228). Watch for unusual activity; if you see any, report it immediately to the appropriate financial institution.


Then freeze your credit report. This prevents scammers from opening new credit cards or making big purchases in your name. You can unfreeze it as needed for legitimate transactions. Visit IdentityTheft.gov for more information.


6. Safeguard your wallet


Remove cards and information you don’t need to carry (such as your Social Security or Medicare card). Make copies of the remaining cards (front and back) and store in a safe place. 


Audit your wallet and purse frequently. Take out any unnecessary items that collect and could compromise your personal information if lost or that would be a hassle to replace.


7. Protect your financial accounts


Create online accounts with each of your financial institutions. Come up with a unique password for each, and every few months, revise the passwords. (Your best bet is to use a passphrase: Ilovemy­17dogz! is much stronger than Scruffy23. Keep track of passwords in a highly secure password manager or by writing them down and storing them safely.) But you should not rely solely on passwords. Many financial institutions will allow you to use a one-time passcode sent to your phone as an extra layer of security.


Then get in the habit of reviewing the transaction lists on a weekly or biweekly basis. Be sure you can account for every listed transaction. Spot something odd or incorrect? Immediately report it.


8. Safeguard your smartphone


If you have a newer model, turn on biometric identification (finger­print or facial recognition); this will help prevent a thief from logging in to your phone.

Send calls from unknown numbers to voicemail (you can enable this in the phone’s settings). Make sure your voicemail is set up and not full, so you can receive legitimate messages.


Scammers are sending far more bogus texts, often posing as companies you routinely deal with. Never respond to an unsolicited business text; if you think it might be valid, call the organization or go online.


Also make sure you are signed out of any ­financial apps on your phone — credit cards, financial institutions and peer-to-peer apps such as Venmo, CashApp or Zelle — when you aren’t using them.


9. Secure your computer


Turn on two-factor authentication for all secure websites you frequent, such as financial institutions or utility companies (find out how via each site’s online security center). Then only someone logged in to your phone can receive the code to access those accounts.


Consider subscribing to an antivirus software service. Some security experts say browsers and device manufacturers have more built-in malware protection than years ago, such as Microsoft Defender, which comes installed on some devices. Some paid subscriptions also include ad tracker blocking, cloud backups of your machines and identity theft monitoring.


10. Protect your email accounts


Actively designate unsolicited and unwanted email that shows up in your inbox as spam, so future emails from that site get blocked.


Do not open file attachments in emails from businesses or people you don’t trust completely. Malware is often planted via email attachments.


11. Set limits on social media


Set your profile so that only your friends can see your Facebook page. To do that, click the downward arrow button in the upper-right corner of your Facebook page, then click on Settings & Privacy and Privacy Checkup. This easy-to-use wizard will guide you through the settings. And never accept friend requests from people you don’t know or respond to random messages from strangers. But also note that impostor scams, where someone pretends to be your friend, are rampant on social media.


12. Verify online stores


To avoid shopping scams, when typing in a URL, double- and triple-check the spelling to ensure you are on the correct page. Scammers often create a URL with one letter off from the authentic one in hopes you won’t catch it.


Remove your credit card number and information from restaurant delivery and retail store sites. Pay using an e-payment service that keeps credit card info on a highly secure site.


13. Don’t pay for anything in gift cards, cryptocurrency or gold


It’s best to pay with a credit card, which can protect you from all sorts of scams — including gift card scams. Criminals prefer untraceable methods of payment that are hard to reverse, so will ask for gift cards, cryptocurrencygold bars, prepaid debit cards. If someone — especially a stranger — asks for payment or debt settlement using one of these payment methods, think twice.


14. Find a sounding board


It’s a good idea to have at least one person who can help you identify potential scams by being a financial confidante — an objective party you can consult before making big purchases or money transfers to ensure that they’re wise and legitimate.


15. Change the way you think 


Learn how to not engage. You are under no obligation in these modern times to respond to calls, emails or texts from strangers — especially given that so many of them are fraudulent. One option: Open your iPhone’s contact list and add your family, friends, doctors and other important numbers. Then go into your phone settings and turn on the setting for "silence unknown callers." This will send any caller who isn't in your contacts list directly to voicemail.


Learn to say no. Sometimes a caller will get through. Get tough: Say, “I do not do business over the phone. Goodbye.” Then hang up without remorse.

Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t sound right, run it by someone you trust and take extra time to think about it.


Full article: https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/protecting-yourself-from-criminals

Retiree Corner

Limited Retiree Personal Loans Program

The Government Employees’ Retirement System (GERS) is pleased to announce the startup of its Limited Retiree Personal Loans Program as approved by the Board of Trustees.


Beginning May 19, 2025, GERS retirees interested in applying for a personal loan can complete an interest form and schedule an appointment online at www.usvigers.com. Appointments are available until August 1, 2025, or until the allotted funds are exhausted - whichever comes first. Retirees who are unable to schedule an online appointment are invited to visit the GERS offices on St. Croix (Orange Grove) or St. Thomas (Waterfront), where a Customer Service Representative will assist them. Please note that appointments will be confirmed only when eligibility has been verified. An application fee of $25.00 will be deducted from the loan amount. For your loan appointment, bring a valid, unexpired government-issued ID.

 

As of July 4, 2025, we have served 339 retirees, 167 on St. Thomas and 172 on St. Croix, totaling $2.5 million.


Key features of the Limited Personal Loans Program include:


Funding Allocation: For 2025, there will be a total of $15 million available for personal loans, with $7.5 million allocated per district. After those amounts are exhausted, no further personal loans shall be made by the GERS in 2025.


Eligibility: GERS retirees currently receiving an annuity check (no pending retirees and no retirees with existing loans).


Loan Amount: GERS retirees may apply for a personal loan of up to $7,500.


Loan Term: The loan term is up to five (5) years at an 8% interest rate. The payoff date must occur before the GERS retiree reaches age 70. (Other terms and conditions apply.)


For more information and updates on the Limited Personal Loans Program, please call our Customer Service office at (340) 693-3939 or visit the GERS' website at www.usvigers.com.


Follow us on social media for the latest updates.

Celebrating our Seniors for Carnival

On May 2nd and 3rd, 2025, the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services (Division of Senior Citizen Affairs) proudly hosted the Senior Reviewing Stand at the 2025 VI Carnival Children and Adults’ Parades in Market Square, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas!


The GERS generously stepped in to help subsidize the meals for our retirees, ensuring that over 80 seniors at the Children’s Parade and over 100 seniors at the Adults’ Parade were able to fully enjoy a day filled with music, culture, and community.


Both days, our seniors enjoyed a delicious spread of breakfast, lunch, snacks, and drinks of their choice while taking front-row seats at both parades. Not even the rain could dampen the Carnival energy and excitement. Photos from these special days are included below, showcasing the joy and spirit of the occasion!

Source: US Virgin Islands Department of Human Services' Facebook page

Retiree Payroll Schedule

GERS Events

July thru September schedule.

Pre-Retirement Workshops for Actives

Successful retirement planning begins with member education. Our pre-retirement workshops are designed to help you better plan your retirement. Currently, we provide three workshop topics, rotating twice per month.


  • The Pre-Retirement Workshop is open to active members at any stage in their career.
  • The Countdown to Retirement Workshop is open to active members who are at least 2 years away from retirement.
  • The Transitioning to Retirement Workshop is open to active members who are 6 months to 1 year away from retirement.

Bringing our Workshop Directly to You

Do you prefer an in-person workshop to learn more about GERS benefits, including your retirement options? GERS is excited to collaborate with you. We offer onsite presentations and outreach events to keep your team informed. Contact us today at (340) 693-3939 or email membereducation@usvigers.com to schedule your session!

Board of Trustees

Board Meeting Calendar

August 21, 2025 @ 9:30 am

November 19, 2025 @ 9:30 am

September 25, 2025 @ 9:30 am

December 18, 2025 @ 9:30 am

October 23, 2025 @ 9:30 am

Subject to change.

Please monitor email & social media.

Regular Meeting of the Board Trustees on June 18, 2025

GERS Stats

GERS' Bottom Line as of

June 13th Payroll

Total Actives

9,036

Total Retirees

8,775

Retiree Payroll

$11,353,002.56

FY Total Number of Refunds

50

Total Refunds Paid

$391,688.63

Total Death Benefits

4

Death Benefits Paid

$250,837.17

Fiscal Year to Date Total Return Ending

4.6% as of May 31, 2025

The GERS funded status, is the level of accumulated assets that have been set aside for the payment of retirement benefits to employees.

Investment Strategy

In May 2025, global markets saw a positive rise, fueled by a temporary tariff agreement between the US and China, which helped ease trade tensions. As a result, both developed and emerging market equities experienced significant gains. The US saw a strong rebound in shares, particularly in sectors such as Information Technology, Communication Services, and Consumer Discretionary, as concerns about tariffs eased and first-quarter earnings exceeded expectations. Meanwhile, the Eurozone and UK markets also saw gains, although market volatility persisted due to ongoing trade threats, particularly from President Trump's proposed tariffs on the EU. Emerging markets, such as Taiwan, Korea, South Africa, and Mexico, outperformed thanks to a combination of easing trade concerns, strong investor optimism in AI, and favorable currency strength and interest rate cuts.


In the fixed income space, US credit was downgraded by Moody’s from Aaa to Aa1 due to deficit concerns, which caused Treasury yields to rise. This led to a sell-off in global government bond markets. However, US high-yield bonds performed strongly, benefiting from improved risk sentiment and reduced recession fears.


The Total Plan saw a return of 2.7% Month-to-Date (MTD), with notable performances in both domestic and international equities. The Total Domestic Equity returned 6.4% MTD, with the Russell 1000 Index gaining 6.4% and the Russell 2000 Index returning 5.3%. On the international side, the Total International Equity returned 4.5% MTD, with developed market equities rising by 4.7% and emerging markets by 4.0%. Fixed income saw a slight decline of -0.1% MTD, with investment-grade bonds and TIPS posting negative returns, while high-yield bonds returned 1.7%. Alternatives returned 0.4% MTD.


The cash flow for May ended at approximately $512 million, with $20 million raised during the month. Notable contributions included $7 million from the Russell 1000 Index, $5 million from the MSCI EAFE Index, $4 million from the U.S. Aggregate Bond Index, and $4 million from U.S. High Yield Bonds. Investment management, custodian, and consulting fees totaled $46,000 for the month of May and $234,000 Year-to-Date (YTD), with a fiscal Year-to-Date (FYTD) total of $333,000 in fees.


Looking at asset growth, the Total Plan's beginning market value was $535,991,538 YTD, with a current ending market value of $512,003,880. The Net Cash Flow YTD stands at $50,108,594, and income for the year amounts to $1,056,223. Unrealized appreciation/depreciation is reported at $25,064,713 YTD, with an ending market value of $512,003,880 as of May.


Overall, May’s performance highlighted strong equity returns and the ongoing stabilization in fixed income, positioning the plan for steady growth as we move through the year.

Portfolio Assets include loans, stocks, bonds, buildings and property, and alternatives investments.

 

Note: Return numbers exclude the GERS office buildings. They are however included in the total portfolio assets. All figures are estimates.

 

GERS Properties Appraisal: Unveiling Market Insights and Future Potential

As part of our ongoing efforts to assess and provide an accurate valuation of our key properties, we have completed a comprehensive appraisal of several significant locations, the GERS Complex, St. Croix Headquarters, and Havensight Mall.


GERS Complex - St. Thomas


The GERS Complex in St. Thomas has been evaluated to determine its market value as of June 5, 2024. This three-story office building boasts a total construction area of ±67,300 square feet, which includes both covered and uncovered parking and driveways, all situated on a 68,296 square foot commercial-zoned urban lot.


After thorough research and analysis of the property, we are pleased to report the As-Is market value of the leased fee interest in the GERS Complex is valued at:


  • Market Value – GERS Complex: $10,400,000 as of June 5, 2024


This valuation reflects the current state of the property, considering all factors impacting market values in the surrounding area.

St. Croix Headquarters


Our appraisal also included the St. Croix Headquarters, a property consisting of a 126,829 square foot (2.9-acre) with three free-standing office buildings. These buildings combine for a gross construction area of approximately 31,200 square feet and a rentable area of 23,500 square feet.


After an in-depth analysis, we have determined the market value As-Is of the leased fee interest in the St. Croix Headquarters to be:


  • Market Value – St. Croix Headquarters: $3,400,000 as of June 5, 2024


These appraisals provide an accurate reflection of the current market values of the GERS Complex, St. Croix Headquarters, and Havensight Mall, along with a projection for the future value of Havensight Mall. The total market value of all three properties combined, as of June 5, 2024, is $60,300,000, with an anticipated total value of $114,000,000 upon stabilization in 2026.


These assessments will help guide decisions and facilitate strategic planning for our real estate portfolio.


Last, but not least, the team is a vital part of what makes GERS an essential asset to St. Croix and St. Thomas, and we celebrate this milestone with immense pride and gratitude.

St. Croix's Facilities Management Team

St. Thomas' Facilities Management Team

Havensight Mall

Celebrating GERS' Ownership of Havensight Mall and Honoring WICO's Legacy

The Government Employees’ Retirement System (GERS) takes immense pride in its ownership of the historic Havensight Mall, a landmark property that has stood as a symbol of St. Thomas' rich history and vibrant culture. Since acquiring the mall in 1993, GERS has continued to honor its legacy while building upon the vision for a thriving commercial hub that has attracted both locals and visitors alike.


Havensight Mall’s iconic White House has long been synonymous with the West Indian Company, Ltd. (WICO), which previously held ownership and proudly displayed its name atop the building. As part of the transition in ownership, the name “WICO” has been replaced with “GERS.” However, as we look to the future, we feel it is important to pay homage to WICO’s pivotal role in the property's history. To that end, we are pleased to announce that the original WICO insignia on top of the White House will remain in place as a gesture of respect for the legacy and contributions made by WICO.


Our rebranding efforts continue as we work to modernize and elevate the property's image, while preserving its rich heritage. The Havensight Mall remains a cornerstone of our community, and we’re committed to ensuring that it not only meets the needs of the present but is also positioned for future growth. Alongside this, the property is being well-maintained, with ongoing enhancements to ensure it remains a top destination for business and leisure.


In addition to our historical ties, we are excited to commemorate a major milestone for the Havensight Mall team. This year marks the 5th anniversary of GERS operating Havensight Mall, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the hard work, dedication, and commitment that the team has shown in making the mall the successful business hub it is today. Over the last five years, the team has consistently gone above and beyond to ensure a smooth operation, offering unparalleled service and cultivating a welcoming environment for both tenants and visitors.


To all the staff who have contributed to the success of the Havensight Mall, we extend a heartfelt "Thank You" for your continuous efforts. Your passion and determination have been integral in keeping the mall a cornerstone of our community. You truly embody the spirit of collaboration, and it is your dedication that keeps the wheels of the mall turning smoothly every day. From behind-the-scenes operations to frontline service, your dedication keeps the heart of the mall beating strong every single day. We appreciate all that you do.


Lastly, the Havensight Mall property appraisal was conducted with the aim of estimating both the As-Is market value as of October 1, 2024, and the prospective market value upon stabilization, anticipated by October 1, 2026.


The Havensight Mall is a multi-building shopping center that includes a mix of retail, office, warehouse, and leased commercial and lodging spaces. The total gross area of the owner’s building is ±156,000 square feet, with a total gross area of ±280,000 square feet, which includes land-lease buildings. The site spans 18.9 acres (822,560 square feet) and features both uncovered parking and driveways.


Based on thorough analysis and market trends, the As-Is and prospective market values of the leased fee estate are as follows:



  • As-Is Market Value – Leased Fee Estate: $46,500,000 as of October 1, 2024
  • Prospective Market Value – Leased Fee Estate Upon Stabilization: $53,700,000 as of October 1, 2026


Here’s to many more years of success, growth, and continued excellence at Havensight Mall!

Havensight's White House

Then

West Indian Company Limited Signage

Now

Government Employees' Retirement System Signage

Havensight Mall Hotel Update

We are pleased to share the latest updates on the highly anticipated Hampton by Hilton at Havensight, a project funded by Haven Development. The construction of the hotel is progressing remarkably, with the Visitor Center foundation and walls completed, and interior finishing nearly completed. We are excited to announce that the property is now approximately 95% complete.


As we approach the final stages of development, we can already see the vision taking shape: a world-class hotel offering modern accommodations, stunning views, and exceptional service in one of St. Thomas' most vibrant and historic areas.


The soft opening is scheduled for August 5, 2025, marking an exciting milestone for the property. This will allow the team to fine-tune operations and ensure that everything is in place for a seamless guest experience. The grand opening is scheduled for October 2025, and we anticipate it will be a major event for both locals and visitors alike. Guest reservations are open, and guests can check in starting September 5, 2025.


In addition to the hotel’s amenities, one of the most exciting features of this development is the substantial green space that will surround the property. This expansive outdoor area is being designed as a welcoming community spot where residents and visitors can relax, socialize, and enjoy the beauty of St. Thomas. It will be a perfect blend of modern hospitality and community spirit, offering a place for all to connect with nature and one another.


The completion of the Hampton by Hilton marks another significant step in the revitalization and development of the Havensight area. We look forward to seeing the hotel become a key part of the community, enhancing both the local economy and the overall visitor experience on St. Thomas.


Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the opening dates!

Visitor Center Conceptual Design with Green Space (below)

Havensight @Seatrade

Havensight Mall was proud to make its presence felt at Seatrade Cruise Global 2025, which took place from April 7-10, 2025, in Miami, Florida. As one of the largest and most influential cruise industry events, Seatrade Cruise Global attracts participants from all over the world, offering an unparalleled opportunity for networking, education, and showcasing the unique offerings of various destinations.


This year, the U.S. Virgin Islands, home to beautiful beaches, rich culture, and world-class attractions, was a focal point at the event. Attendees from other countries were eager to learn about what makes the U.S. Virgin Islands a must-visit destination.


A highlight of the exhibit was the Havensight Mall, located in the heart of town on St. Thomas. As a premier shopping, dining, and entertainment destination, Havensight Mall was front and center in the exhibit hall, showcasing its prime location and array of attractions. The booth piqued the interest of countless event attendees, who were impressed by the ongoing enhancements in place to further elevate the shopping and visitor experience.


We had the chance to engage with cruise industry leaders, travel agents, tourism, government officials, and professionals, all of whom were eager to learn more about what makes Havensight Mall and the surrounding area an exceptional stop for travelers arriving by sea and air.


We encouraged them to visit us and see the exciting changes for themselves. The feedback we received was overwhelmingly positive, and we are excited to continue showcasing Havensight Mall as a key part of the U.S. Virgin Islands’ thriving tourism industry.


We look forward to welcoming travelers from around the world to explore everything our beautiful islands have to offer, including the unmatched experiences available at Havensight Mall.

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St. Thomas

3438 Kronprindsens Gade, Ste. 1

St. Thomas, VI 00802-5750

Phone: (340) 776-7703

Fax: (340) 776-4499

 

St. Croix 

3004 Estate Orange Grove, Ste. 1

Christiansted, St. Croix

VI 00820-4260 

Phone: (340) 718-5480

Fax: (340) 718-5498

 

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