The Tribune

By YOURI KEMP

The Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce’s principle yesterday called on the $100m Carnival cruise port to hire local contractors and workers as a way to “bring jobs back” to the island.

Greg LaRoda, the chamber’s president, speaking after the Heads of Agreement signing between the government and Carnival, said: “I believe the signing is timely and I am encouraged to see that Carnival Cruises is still committed to The Bahamas and the island of Grand Bahama.

“Construction of the project will bring job opportunities to the island that are badly needed while we struggle to bounce back in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian. I know that there will be opportunities for employment during the rebuilding of the island after Dorian. However, I would like to see local contractors and workers involved in this project as well.”

The 329-acre cruise port will be located at Sharp Rock in east Grand Bahama. There are plans are to construct aquatic facilities, a lighthouse and fort structure, along with food and beverage pavilions.

There also will be a “Harbour Town” plaza with shops eligible for duty-free status on approved goods to cruise passengers; a Junkanoo art plaza of Bahamian operated stores; facilities for a number of recreational and sporting activities, such as a zipline and rock climbing walls; ski lifts and water slides; a yoga pavilion, walking and bicycle trails; an 18-hole miniature golf course and park areas.

Carnival also plans to build an open-air concert/entertainment facility and amphitheatre.