Friends,
Today, we lay the foundation for San Salvador’s next chapter of growth and prosperity.
So that the sons and daughters of San Salvador can build their futures on solid ground – literally and figuratively.
And so that this special island does not feel forgotten, but celebrated and invested in.
My friends, today we sign a $52.6 million contract with GDA Paving & Construction to transform San Salvador’s infrastructure. This is about roads and docks – and even more importantly, this is about dignity, opportunity, and connection for every person who calls this island home.
Under the leadership of Gerard Nairn and Kevin Williams – both proud sons of San Salvador – along with Charles Sealy II, we will see 40 miles of roadways receive asphalt paving. For the first time in this island’s history, you will have roads built to last, not just patched to survive.
We’re also delivering new sidewalks for pedestrian safety, extending from Club Med through town and north to the clinic, so our children and elders can walk safely along busy routes.
The Government Marina will be completely transformed – dredged, widened, and equipped to safely accommodate vessels at any tide, in any weather. No more watching the mailboat struggle. No more limited access that cuts this island off from reliable supply and transport.
For too long, you have navigated sand-sealed roads that erode with every storm. For too long, you have watched boats struggle with a marina too shallow and unpredictable for reliable service. That changes today.
This expanded marina means safe harbour for vessels during storms. It means reliable supply chains and transport connections. It means economic opportunities that have been waiting to be unlocked.
With over 95% of the workforce being Bahamian – and many from right in San Salvador – this project puts our people at the centre of progress. Between 40 and 60 jobs will be created, ensuring that San Salvadorians lead the way in their island’s transformation.
This project is part of our government’s commitment to ensuring no island gets left behind. In this year’s budget communications, we promised to create more opportunities for more Bahamians, island by island.
Today, we deliver on that promise for San Salvador.
Construction will commence within the next few weeks, with completion expected in eighteen months. During this time, these jobs will put money directly into the pockets of San Salvador families.
For many years, I have had the honour of serving as the Member of Parliament for San Salvador. I have engaged with my constituents, celebrated their victories, and stood with them through their challenges.
San Salvador, you have been very patient with me, and I am grateful.
San Salvador, your time is now.
Together, we will build a stronger future for all our Family Islands.
Thank you, and may God continue to bless San Salvador and our beloved Bahamas.