STP sets the stage for San Pedro Water Front Transformation

Press Release – Government of Belize – July 27, 2010 – Under the Sustainable Tourism Program, over Bz$6 million of IDB (International Development Bank) funding, will be invested in a boardwalk stretching 2000 linear feet along the water-front and transforming the back lagoon area of San Pedro Town. The development will incorporate a multipurpose pier housing international and domestic water taxi terminals and small scale shopping. A destination for tourists and locals, the boardwalk will be designed to promote an atmosphere of leisure and relaxation; maintaining the identity of San Pedro Town, while revitalizing the surrounding area.

Local architectural firm International Environments (IE) Ltd. based in Belize City was awarded the contract for the deasibility, planning and design of the Sunset Pier and Boardwalk based on the strength of their technical and price proposals. Today Principal Daniel Arguelles signed off on the Bz $482,500.00 agreement with the Ministry of Tourism and the Belize Tourism Board. IE was one of the 12 firms from the local and international arena who expressed an interest in this challenging under-taking. Their experienced professionals have stated a strong commitment to developing a driver of future economic growth for San Pedro Town, creating further commercial and tourism opportunities and encouraging local ownership of the development.

IE’s team will carry out detailed marine and geotechnical investigations, social environmental studies and economic analysis, contributing to the final blueprints. A manual will also be developed to guide sustainable operations thus ensuring an efficient and successful public amenity for the future. The planning phase will span 5 months, setting the stage for construction to begin early next year.

For more information about the program please contact the Project Coordinating Unit at [email protected] or visit the STP website www.sustainabletourismbz.org.