Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake says he was pleased to take note that the contract has been signed for the Down Street Cruise Heritage Development.
The cruise heritage development will be constructed near the Walter Plantz Tender Jetty and would be completed in August 2014.
"This will be a very positive development for the Down Street community. I would like to commend the Harbour Group of Companies with respect to this project.
"I am looking forward to the involvement of the young people of Philipsburg and Down Street with respect to the construction phase of this US$2 million project. They must be a part of the project and I will be looking for a guarantee that this will take place,"Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday.
The new cruise development entails the construction of approximately six to eight booths that will provide various types of products and services to cruise passengers who disembark the tenders at the Walter Plantz Tender Jetty along with much more. The center of the development will have a water fountain. There will be toilet facilities and the development will be accessible to seniors and the disabled.
The country’s newly formed Down Street Business/Community Association met with Minister Lake and St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies early December where the plans were presented to the community organization.
The organization area of focus within their community is from L’Escargot to the old Paper Garden.
"The new cruise development for Down Street will enhance the area and bring life to Down Street. We need to get back to basics and start showcasing the cultural heritage of our country, the food, drinks, arts and crafts and folkloric dance for residents and visitors to enjoy. This is also one of the reasons why tourists come to our island to learn about the heritage,"Minister Hon. Maurice Lake concluded.
PHOTO CUTLINE: Minister Hon. Maurice Lake