Prime Minister Philip Davis said yesterday during a $14,525,896 contract signing ceremony for the Rock Sound International Airport’s airside works, that developing airports across the country’s archipelago will be treated as a national priority.
Davis said: “The runway at Rock Sound limited growth and kept this part of the island [South Eleuthera] from fully sharing in the opportunities that should come with tourism, investment, and national development. That was the reality we met.
“We made a decision early that airports across the archipelago would be treated as a national priority, because infrastructure is how opportunity reaches people. It shapes whether businesses can expand, whether families can travel with ease, whether investors can commit with confidence, and whether emergency services can respond quickly when time matters.
“Today’s signing is evidence of that decision being carried through.”
Davis continued: “This contract will deliver major airside works at Rock Sound International Airport. It includes reconstruction and overlay of the existing runway to meet ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards, upgraded navigational aids that support night operations, improved drainage, perimeter fencing, runway apron solar lighting, and new striping for the runway and associated areas.
“This work is designed to safely accommodate Bahamasair’s 737-700 aircraft and international regional jets, opening the way for stronger airlift, higher passenger capacity, and direct international connections. It also strengthens emergency airlift capability, which is essential for family island communities.
“The contract value is $14,525,896.00 inclusive of VAT (value-added tax), funded through the government’s 2025–2026 capital budget. Following negotiations, the government has engaged Apex Pavers Company Limited to execute these works, with a clear expectation of quality, safety, and timely completion.”
Davis added: “This project is part of the broader Family Islands Renaissance project. Since 2021, the government has expanded and accelerated airport development across The Bahamas. Three airports have already been completed at Ragged Island, Great Harbour Cay, and Mayaguana. Ten more are under active construction, including projects at Governor’s Harbour and North Eleuthera, with Rock Sound now joining that active list. This work is happening alongside ongoing upgrades by the Airport Authority and the continued remediation and expansion efforts at Lynden Pindling International Airport. For Eleuthera, these investments match the island’s real momentum. Visitor arrivals continue to rise, and new capital works and private developments are strengthening the local economy.”
