By Julian Reid

Bahama Journal Editor

Prime Minister Philip Davis said an $827 million deal to develop the New Grand Lucayan Resort that was executed in Freeport, Grand Bahama yesterday “will long be remembered as pivotal for the people of Grand Bahama.”

“It’s time to turn the page on hardship, to leave heartbreak behind.  It’s a time for renewal, a time for new opportunities, a time for new beginnings.”

The deal was signed with the Concord Wilshire Group headed by Steve Sirang.  The group is well-respected and has offices in Miami, Atlanta, Los Angeles and Phoenix.

The Prime Minister who spent much of his early years as an attorney in Grand Bahama said, “what a blessing it is to be here with you today, to be able to come together to share triumph rather than tragedy.”

He added highlighting his affinity for Grand Bahama, “I built my law practice in Grand Bahama. I served here as a magistrate. I lived here, worked here, and my eldest child was born in Grand Bahama. I became a father in Grand Bahama. I didn’t just pass through—I made a life here.”

The Prime Minister said that “some chapters take longer to write than we’d like — but sometimes it is those same chapters which turn out to be crucial to the story” adding that Grand Bahama’s is unlike is unlike any other.

“You have faced economic downturns, and the strongest storms in nature’s arsenal. Yet no matter the force of devastation, when the waters recede, the people of Grand Bahama rise.” “You sweep out the mud. You reopen your churches. You reopen your businesses. And most of all — you keep your faith alive.”

Stressing the resilience of Grand Bahamians he said, “It is your strength of spirit which inspires our optimism about Grand Bahama’s next chapter. We know you’re going to show up with talent and with determination.”

Some of the provisions of the deal include three new hotel buildings; a full-scale cruise resort; a revitalized 25,000-square-foot casino and a Greg Norman-designed golf course.

There will also be over-the-water cabanas, beach clubs, family attractions, water parks, retail spaces, restaurants, music venues — and a 16-slip mega-yacht marina.

More than 1,300 jobs will be created during construction, and 1,750 permanent jobs when the development is fully up and running.

The Prime Minister assured that thousands of Bahamians will have an opportunity to earn, to grow, and to build a future for themselves and their families, “right here at home.”

“We’ve said clearly: Bahamians must be at the centre of this. At least 80% of these jobs must go to our people. That’s not just a condition — it’s a conviction. Because we know the skill is here. The talent is here. The work ethic is here. What’s been missing is opportunity…but, no longer.”

Prime Minister Davis noted that the project is part of a wider, more connected vision for Grand Bahama.

“A vision that recognises that true development doesn’t happen in silos. It happens when the key pieces fit together — when infrastructure supports industry, when tourism supports small business development, when investment supports people’s ability to live, and work, and thrive – right here at home.”

Mr. Davis said that is why his government is focused on delivering a broader transformation.

“We are moving ahead with a new, modern airport that matches the scale of Grand Bahama’s ambitions — able to attract more carriers, handle more capacity, and offer visitors a first impression that reflects the quality of what this island has to offer.”

“We’re also supporting the Carnival port development — a critical piece in making Grand Bahama a leading cruise destination again. Thousands of passengers, new spending in the local economy, and fresh opportunities for Bahamian entrepreneurs across transport, food, crafts, and tour services.”

The shipyard, too, is part of the government’s strategy. “Already one of the most important industrial assets in the country, the Grand Bahama Shipyard is receiving attention and investment to ensure it continues to grow as a hub for technical jobs, skilled trades, and export-led services.”

The Prime Minister explained that the plan for Grand Bahama is about building a modern economy that supports tourism, transport, manufacturing, and innovation.  A new hospital is also in the equation as is an investment in roads and water systems and support for small businesses.

The Prime Minister said this is a moment that should unite all Bahamians. 

“A moment when Grand Bahamians can stop waiting and start building…Let us move forward together — with great purpose, with gratitude, and with the people at the centre of it all. Let this moment be the turning point. The moment Grand Bahama turned the page and started its most auspicious chapter.”

The signing comes nearly eight years after The Minnis administration bought the property from Chinese group Hutchison Whampoa for$65 million in 2018 in an effort to keep Bahamians employed. There were several attempts to get the property sold but they were unsuccessful.

Marking a move toward the immediate start on the project, after the signing of the agreement, the existing buildings with the exception of Lighthouse Point which remains open were demolished.