NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Assuring that the North Eleuthera Airport redevelopment is moving forward, Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper revealed yesterday that alternative funding has been secured for the project, noting that while the $55 million from the Saudi Fund for Development has not been drawn down due to a slow and bureaucratic process, the project remains on track, with ground expected to be broken this quarter and completion anticipated in 2026.
Cooper, the keynote speaker at the Central & South Eleuthera Business Outlook, also confirmed that the company undertaking the Bimini Airport redevelopment will be responsible for the North Eleuthera Airport redevelopment as well.
“That loan has not been drawn down. The money has not been spent on anything else, and despite the masters and forecasters of doom, we’re pressing forward. The Saudi Fund for Development, however, has been slow and bureaucratic in its processes. Therefore, we’ve identified alternative funding in our commitment to expediting the work. That funding is already in place,” Cooper stated.
He further noted that the Island Airport Development Company has been invited “back to the table” to take on the redevelopment of the North Eleuthera Airport. “We have signed an agreement, and the money is in place with the Plenary International Fund. We anticipate that work will begin shortly. We have already delivered some preliminary improvements to ease pressure at North Eleuthera Airport, and we are preparing for the construction of a state-of-the-art passenger terminal. We expect shovels in the ground this quarter, with a projected completion date in mid-2026,” Cooper added.
Addressing the Governor’s Harbour Airport, Cooper outlined upcoming improvements. “As part of this arrangement, phase one of airside works will include runway enhancements at Governor’s Harbour, enabling expanded service. We’ve already seen some renovations, but this phase—working alongside Island Airport developers—will completely repave the runway, which has been a source of much concern and complaints.”
Regarding the Rock Sound Airport, Cooper acknowledged its emerging role as a key gateway and revealed that the government is considering a public-private partnership to rehabilitate the airport. “This will correct long-standing issues and support the growth we’re seeing in this area,” he said. Cooper emphasized that the North Eleuthera Airport remains the top priority due to its significance as one of the busiest airports in the country.
Cooper also noted that despite ongoing challenges, Eleuthera recorded nearly $18,000 stopover visitors in the first two months of 2025—a 34 percent increase over last year.
Cooper described this as both “encouraging and instructive” regarding the island’s economic future. However, he acknowledged potential headwinds, citing global economic uncertainty and the recent Trump tariff announcements, which could contribute to rising costs of living—particularly for Americans, who make up 80 percent of The Bahamas’ tourism market.
“So far, we’re beating pace for 2024, but we are bracing ourselves,” Cooper admitted, noting concerns about how economic conditions could impact the country’s major industry. Fortunately, he pointed out that The Bahamas’ proximity to the United States remains an advantage, as travelers tend to stay closer to home during uncertain times.
Cooper also addressed concerns about the recent United States travel advisory, specifically regarding jet ski operators in Nassau. “While the level of the advisory has not changed, there have been concerns—particularly about jet ski operators in Nassau. While these advisories tend to have less impact on places like Eleuthera, Exuma, and other Family Islands, we must recognize that many people do not understand the geography of The Bahamas. When they hear ‘Nassau,’ they think that applies to the entire archipelago. This highlights the need to continue our messaging that tourism is everybody’s business.”
Cooper reiterated the government’s commitment to advancing the tourism industry, stressing that infrastructure investments—particularly in Eleuthera’s airports—are directly tied to the island’s economic growth.
