There was no sugar and no base construction left to do. The government of Puerto Rico tried, between 1945 and the 1960's, to re-establish an agricultural economy in what was left of the civilian section of Vieques but failed. Between 1960 and 1970 the economy shifted from agriculture to manufacture, being the General Electric plant the most consistent source of employment. The plant was established in 1969 and is still in operation. The population in Vieques has not changed much through the decades and still remains close to 10,000.
Unemployment runs high.
At the present time there is some development of the tourism industry. There are more small hotels and restaurants in Vieques than ever before. There is even a mega resort under construction. Many residents make a living out of renting their properties to tourists. Development of any kind will be limited as long as the Navy keeps control of two thirds of the total Island.