Wednesday, Jul 28, 2010

WORK is officially underway on an immense $70m expansion and renovation project at Providenciales International Airport.
Over the coming months the runway and terminal will be completely transformed to accommodate larger aircraft, more frequent flights and more visitors.
Dubbed “a major milestone” for the country, the self-financed venture is expected to assist the Turks and Caicos Islands on its way to economic recovery.
On Monday morning all of the project’s major supporters gathered at the site of the runway extension to witness the historic groundbreaking ceremony.
John Smith, chief executive officer of the Turks and Caicos Islands Airport Authority (TCIAA), took to the podium to tell a packed tent full of attendees about the project.
He explained that during the first phase Canadian-based company Dexter Construction will carry out a lengthening of the runway.
During phase two, which has yet to be released to tender, a selected company will expand the terminal building.
Once the entire project is complete the airport will be able to accommodate more frequent flights to and from North America, Mr Smith said, as well as larger aircraft from as far afield as Europe and Asia.
Mark Capes, acting governor and public service CEO, said he was delighted to see the first stage of the project underway.
“The construction of the new runway is an important step towards creating a modern, safe and efficient international gateway that will enhance the appeal and competitiveness of the TCI.
“It will inject several million dollars directly into the economy, safeguarding many local jobs during this difficult period of economic recession that confronts the region.”
Mr Capes said that the TC Government has worked in close partnership with the TCIAA to secure the necessary funding and approvals needed for this “critical” project.
He added that the award of the contract to Dexter Construction is an example of the government’s commitment to follow internationally recognised standards in investment appraisal and public procurement.
The company has vowed to establish a scholarship programme for a number of Belongers working on this project, who will have the opportunity to study at training facilities in Canada.
“This will help to bring-on young local talent and build a skilled indigenous workforce, ready to contribute to the future of this country,” Mr Capes said.
Locally-based Cove Construction and CBMS have also been chosen as major sub-contractors in the extensive runway works.
Mr Capes continued: “Many challenges still lie ahead as we work to stabilise our fiscal position and economy.
“The road to recovery here, as elsewhere, will be testing. But I have no doubt that this project will play a key part in securing that recovery over the longer term.”
Caesar Campbell, CEO of the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Authority, said the project would make life easier for visitors and residents arriving at Providenciales Airport.
“Congestion is a major challenge for us particularly on the weekends and we have to fix this – we’ve been getting complaints left, right and centre from our visitors and residents.
“So it’s a welcome move on the part of the government and we look forward to working with Airport Authority.”
FirstCaribbean and Barclays Capital have partnered to provide up to $70m for the redevelopment and expansion project.
FirstCaribbean corporate director Peter Horton, who was present at the ceremony, said he was proud to be part of the “momentous” occasion.
“We would like to thank the Turks and Caicos Airport Authority for the confidence they have placed in us.
“We are pleased to have been chosen as your financial partner in helping facilitate this milestone and we look forward to working with you to ensure its successful conclusion.”
An airport redevelopment charge of $20 which is paid by every passenger that passes through Providenciales International Airport will fund the loan repayments.
Following the speeches Mr Capes joined Herbert Ingham, chairman of the TCIAA, in breaking ground at the site of the runway extension.

By Rebecca Bird
Turks & Caicos Weekly News