The Puerto Rican Government plans to invest $38m to develop regional airports, as part of its efforts to boost tourism and create jobs.
In a statement, Governor Alejandro Garcia Padilla said that the project will be funded with $13m of federal and Puerto Rican government funds, and $25m from the private sector.
The project is expected to create 200 service sector jobs as well as 400 jobs during the construction stage.
As part of the project, a new warehouse and cargo distribution centre will be built at Rafael Hernandez Airport in Aguadilla.
Fernando Ribas Dominicci Isla Grande Airport in San Juan will get a new terminal to accommodate executive passengers; the runways of Mercedita Airport in Ponce the will be revamped; and the airports in Humacao and Arecibo will be transformed into aviation education and recreation centres.
In addition, a new retail space and community area will be created at Antonio Rivera Rodriguez Airport on the island of Vieques, which will enable 50 craftsmen and artists to exhibit and sell their wares.
Garcia Padilla said, “With this plan and the accompanying investment, we will expand the contributions of all our regional airports with the goal of creating jobs and establishing the conditions for sustainable economic development.”
Last month, Alejandro Garcia Padilla announced a project to expand Luis Muñoz Marin Airport International Airport, which is located in Carolina, Puerto Rico.
The project, which will be implemented by Brazil-based International Meal Company, will establish a new General Aviation Terminal, a new hangar and new areas for the sale of food.
