NASSAU, BAHAMAS- The Abaco Club recently hosted a comprehensive informational session for local Bahamian contractors, outlining upcoming development plans for 2026 and beyond and reinforcing the organization’s continued commitment to meaningful economic participation within the Abaco community.
Held at Town Center Plaza in Marsh Harbour, the session drew an exceptional response from the local construction sector, with attendance exceeding venue capacity and standing room only throughout the presentation. Representatives from The Abaco Club’s development and construction teams provided updates on forthcoming project phases, anticipated work packages, and the structured pre-qualification process required for contractors seeking to participate in upcoming bidding opportunities.
Bill Chrysler, Vice President of Operations said, “We pride ourselves on being true partners with the Abaco community. We are committed to building with Bahamian labour, with Bahamian contractors. We want the Abacos to grow and succeed. We are partners here on the island with all of you.”
Contractors in attendance expressed strong enthusiasm upon learning of the range of opportunities expected to become available in the coming phases of development. More than 50 contractors registered on site to receive future bid notifications, underscoring the high level of local interest and readiness to participate in the Club’s continued expansion.
Regional Director of Construction, Paul Lashley emphasized his commitment to see as many Bahamian contractors as possible share in the economic “pie”.
“There are people sitting in this room who have built and grown their businesses by working with us, and I hope that will continue. My first mandate when I joined this company was to help create a system where Bahamians are leading the work on this project. I know the skillset to produce exceptional work exists in The Bahamas, and it exists right here in Abaco,” he said.
Director of Investments Phylicia Woods-Hanna as well as Ms Claire Basden from the Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) were also present to support contractors with the pre-qualification process, providing guidance related to required documentation, including National Insurance Board (NIB) compliance and other administrative requirements needed to ensure eligibility for upcoming work packages.
Member of Parliament for North Abaco Mr Kirk Cornish and Member of Parliament for South Abaco, John Pinder II were also in attendance to lend their support.
During the session, contractors received further guidance on submission timelines, eligibility criteria, and the evaluation framework that will govern procurement for future works. The Abaco Club emphasized its focus on transparency, fairness, and the prioritization of qualified Bahamian participation as development progresses.
Interested contractors operating in Abaco who wish to be considered for future opportunities are invited to submit formal expressions of interest via email to construction@theabacoclub.com. Submissions will support the ongoing pre-qualification review process ahead of the release of new construction packages tied to the Club’s next phase of expansion as permitting for this phase of work is still ongoing.
Persons who may have difficulty in creating an email address or filling out these forms are asked to reach out to Abaco’s local SBDC representative, Ms Claire Basden at 242 357 9431 for assistance.
