(CNS Business): The Cayman Islands Airports Authority (CIAA) has signed a contract with DSS Contractors, a Brac construction firm, to carry out the enabling works on the expansion to the Charles Kirkconnell International Airport (formerly Gerrard-Smith International Airport), which are necessary to facilitate the planned improvements to the terminal, subject to requisite planning approvals. DSS was selected after a departmental tender process to carry out the enabling works, which include relocation of sewage facilities, construction of a temporary outdoor baggage area and creation of a temporary interior baggage corridor and demolition of the existing exterior baggage area.

The CIAA announced in March 2012 that the terminal facilities would be expanded to accommodate nonstop outgoing international flights between Cayman Brac, the US and elsewhere. It is expected that the main terminal expansion works will commence by the end of the year and conclude next summer.

According to the authority’s CEO, Jeremy Jackson, the expansion is being fully funded by the CIAA and that it would “undoubtedly provide a much-needed boost to the continued economic development of Cayman Brac.”

CIAA Project Manager Nicholas Johnson, who is working in conjunction with Donal McGrath of BDCL Architects on the primary design and planning phases, confirmed that the terminal would remain operational during all aspects of the expansion and efforts would be made to minimize interruption to passenger processing as the building is extended to the east.

The project will accommodate a larger Ticketing Hall, enhanced Passenger Screening and Hold Baggage Screening facilities and the addition of outgoing Immigration counters. The Departure Lounge will also be expanded to create additional retail space and a larger restaurant. Office space is also being created for Cayman Airways as well as the airport’s Security unit and a VIP lounge.

Acknowledging the progress being made on the project, Premier McKeeva Bush said, “This is an important milestone in furthering the development of the tourism industry in Cayman Brac. If we are to see the island’s tourism industry grow, then improved airport facilities are an essential element. The plans that have been laid for the Charles Kirkconnell International Airport are excellent, and as premier and minister responsible for airports I am extremely happy that this initiative by my government is now underway.”

Deputy Premier and Minister responsible for District Administration, Works, Lands and Agriculture (DAWL&A) Juliana O’Connor-Connolly said she was pleased to see the progress that the Airports Authority has made to date and looks forward to an early completion of the project.

“The contract signing is another positive step in the extension of the Charles Kirkconnell International Airport which brings Cayman Brac up to international standards and increases the Islands’ ability to attract a new tourist base, which will help to stimulate our economy,” she remarked.