Nassau, The Bahamas – Bahamians and tourists are already enjoying the benefits of the redevelopment of the foreshore at Montagu as the joint project of the Bahamas Government and Kerzner International nears completion.
Government officials along with representatives of Kerzner International conducted a walkabout of the foreshore on Monday.
Environment Minister the Hon. Earl Deveaux said, “The Government directed Kerzner’s community outreach programme to Montagu to ensure that this particular project was completed, and we’re extraordinarily pleased with the results.”
The addition of vegetation on the beach including scaevola, sea oats and railroad vine, are intended for beach rehabilitation and to help stabilise the dune, said Minister Deveaux.
Public Works and Transport Minister, the Hon. Neko Grant, said in short order contracts will be issued for paving of the driving area, parking lot and two toilet blocks in the east and west.
“We intend to issue a contract that will improve the traffic flow at the intersection of Village and Shirley Street and the Bay Street intersection,” said Mr. Grant. “There has been considerable congestion at the boat ramp. If you go to the east you would see we are doing works there now in the parking lot as well as other works that will provide a clean environment for the vendors selling fresh food.”
Ed Fields, senior vice president of public affairs, said Kerzner is very pleased to have partnered with the Government on this community project, designed to enhance the quality of life for Bahamians.
He said the refurbishment involved importing tons of sand, installation of whale fin groynes and creating cells for the sand to remain in place.
Picnic tables and benches are other features that will be added to the sand fences and coconut trees that now beautify the beach.
By Kathryn Campbell
Bahamas Information Services
