The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration awarded a $1.7 million grant to support a Virgin Islands seaplane facility that it said is a major inter-island transportation hub.

The money will help the Port Authority of Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas make shoreline stabilization improvements to the Christiansted Water Gut Seaplane Facility.

The EDA said that according to grantee estimates, the project is expected to retain 42 jobs and generate $1.9 million in private investment as well.

Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said the investment was in line with administration goals that include "creating new opportunities through infrastructure investments that benefit local communities. Improving the Christiansted Water Gut Seaplane Facility will help facilitate business travel and commerce in the U.S. Virgin Islands."

The EDA said that seaplane service "is the preferred option for business travel back and forth between St. Croix and St. Thomas. Improvements to the terminal area and shoreline will increase ridership, leading to expansion of various services and job growth throughout the region."