If you build it, they will come. Or, in the case of the island of Exuma in the Bahamas, increased visitor demand is driving an infrastructure development, rather than the other way around.
Exuma is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and famous swimming pigs, so it's not surprising that it has rebounded strongly post-pandemic. The Bahamas in general has seen a strong tourism recovery.
But improved air access is crucial for island destinations like Exuma. The island outpaced pre-pandemic growth and plans to expand its airport infrastructure are now underway.
TravelPulse Canada EIC John Kirk met with the Honorable I. Chester Cooper, Bahamas Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation on location in Exuma to learn more about the massive strategy to not only improve existing conditions but to create infrastructure that will position the island airport as a hub for central and southern Bahamas.
“Growth in Exuma has really outstripped the infrastructure,” Cooper tells Kirk. “For the past three years we’ve spent about $150 million to really revamp the infrastructure that is in addition to the $60 million we’re spending on the airport itself.
By the end of 2025, we hope that the terminal will be completed.”
Exuma however isn’t the only island undergoing expansion of its tourism infrastructure. New roads, bridges and airports are being built across all of the islands, including a new airport in Black Point where the runway will extend to 6500 feet to accommodate small jets.
“That will be important for the Exuma Keys, Black Point will be an international hub and able to service the new Rosewood Resort, the Standard Key Resort and many other small resorts and private destinations. Getting airlift closer to those higher end destinations will be beneficial.”
There are many new resorts being added as well, which Cooper says will fit every type of traveller from families to couples.
“Come and visit my home. For me this isn’t just a job, it’s my home where I was born and raised. I got involved in politics to see the renaissance of this island and fortunately we’re seeing that renaissance.”
Watch the whole video – including Kirk’s rather accurate comparison to the movie Notting Hill – and learn more about all the resorts being added to the island as well.
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