News Release

Phase II of Stable Building Roof Project

Date: June 29, 2023
Contact: Tyler Teuscher

St. Croix, US Virgin Islands – The National Park Service (NPS) Christiansted National Historic Site (CHRI) in partnership with Historic Preservation Training Center (HPTC) is repairing the roof of the historic Stable Building at Fort Christiansvaern. In approximately 1972-1976 the roof had been replaced with a roof and had reached its life expectancy in 2015. In 2017, HPTC removed the failing timbers and roof, replaced all roof rafters, and installed a temporary roof to protect the structure and its contents. Phase II is currently underway this month.The work to be performed:

• Remove the top layer of the temporary roof.
• Remove the temporary framing under the exterior roof layer.
• Install hollow core concrete plank panels for the structural base layer. Interior timber framing will remain in place to maintain the historic character defining features on the interior of the structure.
• Install a layer of Danish kiln fired brick to the concrete panel roofing. The brick is purchased from Danish brick makers to match in-kind historic color schemes and appearance.
• Apply brick sealant to final roof layer.

Why is this project important?
The project will allow the building to continue to exist into the future, allowing the complex stories and history of Fort Christiansvaern to be told to future generations. It will also return the roof structure top aesthetics to match the historical appearance of the Stable roof.

When is it happening?
June 2023 through August 2023.

Impacts to guest experience?
Impacts to access for public will be minimal. Foot travel through the fish market area may be reduced due to site security and safety. The parking lot at Fort Christiansvaern will remain open for regular day use from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

How is it funded?
This project is part of ongoing efforts by the NPS to preserve, restore, and rehabilitate park infrastructure and facilities. Supported by revenue from energy development, the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) Legacy Restoration Fund (LRF) provides up to $1.3 billion per year for five years to make significant enhancements in national parks to ensure their preservation while providing opportunities for recreation, education, and enjoyment for current and future generations. Approximately $14 million from the fund is supporting geographically based HPTC Maintenance Action Teams projects in 59 national parks, including Christiansted National Historical Site.