PHILIPSBURG:--- On Wednesday, June 1st, Minister Ottley planned a surprise visit to the airport reconstruction project. The Minister was accompanied by CEO Brian Mingo of the Princess Juliana International Airport, the project’s manager, management and staff of Ballastnedam, and his support staff.
Although the scheduled visit was a surprise, the Minister was left in awe of the progress at the Princess Juliana departure hall. Minister Ottley was given a detailed tour and explanation of the building and the changes in its design. The new design will be able to withstand winds up to 185MPH as opposed to the original 135MPH design. Minister Ottley was elated to see that the drywall frame design and placement have already started for the office areas.
The airport explained that this crisis had allowed them to redesign an airport that not only is attractive but also takes into consideration all the aspects of being an international airport by increasing customer-friendly accommodations.
Phase 1 and 2 is expected to be completed by the end of January 2023 which is still in the high season.
The Minister expressed his appreciation to all the stakeholders in the PJIAE reconstruction project and encouraged them to keep on their trajectory. “St. Maarten needs the airport completion, as it is our railroad to resiliency. Today I can truly say that I see the light at the end of the tunnel. Besides the building and it’s progress I am most proud of the faces that I see on site. Over 40 legal citizens are working on this project which equates to over 40 families being assisted locally.” Said Ottley.
