Port Antonio Marina project gets under way

By Gareth Davis, Freelance Writer

PORT ANTONIO:

A ground-breaking ceremony held at the Ken Wright Pier on Friday, July 20, signals the start of Phase I of the $500 million Port Antonio Marina project, expected to be completed by June 2002.

The first phase will also include the construction of a five-star mega yacht marina, along with a boat yard, a boardwalk, and a promenade encircling the west harbour. The project will also see a complete renovation of the Ken Wright Pier, and its terminal building. It should be completed in time for Port Antonio's participation in the "America's Sail", a tall ship competition.

Minister of Transport and Works, Dr. Peter Phillips, who broke ground for the project, stated that the second phase will involve the expansion of the Ken Jones Aerodrome to accommodate all private aircraft.

"The decision was taken to involve Ken Jones as an international port of entry," Dr. Phillips said. This is to enable aircraft that are coming in to be cleared through customs and immigration. This is critical to the luxury end of the market, which is quite fitting for Port Antonio."

The Minister also said financing to the tune of J$700 million is currently being negotiated by the Port Authority. "We see Port Antonio as being particularly placed as the luxury end of the leisure industry in the world. The development project was mandated by Cabinet to the Port Authority, which has had a good track record of success in operating and overseeing the transhipment facilities in the Port of Kingston." the Minister said.

The Minister added that Cabinet has also decided that proceeds from cruise shipping should go to the Port Authority, as it will be assuming an even more intense role and responsibility in facilitating the development of the leisure sector of the marine industry.

"Already the expansion of the cruise ship pier has brought some benefits," the Minister said. "Two new cruise ships are slated to call on Port Antonio in December of this year. The Radisson Seven Seas and the Sea Cloud will make their call, and we will also be expanding the pier to 700 feet, to be able to accommodate mega ships."

The Minister said he is confident that the work will be completed on time, and within the budget.

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