The Tribune

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Tribune Business Reporter

nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

WITH Bimini set for even more resort development, some residents yesterday expressed fears that the small island is being over developed and will eventually become overpopulated, one telling Tribune Business: “I don’t know why this island is being overloaded”.

Prime Minister Perry Christie revealed this weekend that Bimini is set for yet another series of Resorts World investments, via a three-year $150 million project that will see the construction of two low density hotels and the creation of some 1,000 jobs.

Resorts World Genting has taken over the operations of the Bimini Bay Resort, having partnered with RAV Bahamas to open a $24 million, 10,000 square foot luxury boutique casino at the property Resorts World Bimini has also recently launched a SuperFast ferry between Miami and Bimini.

But Lorrick Roberts, owner of Dolphin Golf Cart Rentals, claimed that residents were being left in the dark over the developments on the island.

“Bimini is overdeveloped and the infrastructure of this island is not able to maintain what they are trying to bring,” he said.

“We understand that a hotel goes with the casino, but this Government has not yet held a community meeting about the casino. The fast ferry started and the community doesn’t know about what’s going on.”

He added: “Bimini has never seen a recession, so I don’t know why they’re making it seem as though so much is being done for Bimini. People are just coming here, overcrowding Bimini with nowhere to stay, and the island is overdeveloped.

“Bimini has seen 100 per cent employment for the last 12-15 years. We know that we make our money from March to September, and we know that from September up until March next year, it’s slow. We’re a fishing town, a boating town. I don’t know why this island is being overloaded.”

Ebenezer David, owner of Ebbie’s & Pat’s Bone Fish Club, gave a mixed reaction to the recent developments on the island.

“Overdevelopment is too much for any island. I wanted to see Bimini as a hidden treasure. I think it’s going to be overwhelmed with people because progress bring schanges. It’s a good thing, and I don’t know if it’s a bad thing. It’s kind of a touch and go thing, so we have to wait and see,” said Mr David.

He added: “What was good for me is my that my bonefish lodge has been secured by the Gaming Board for a year. It wasn’t getting the clients to sustain it, but with the casino coming on stream the Gaming Board secured my place for a year for their inspectors.”

Sue Duncombe, owner of Sue and Joy’s Variety Store and Sue and Joy’s Wine and Spirits, told Tribune Business briefly: “I think it’s a good idea and I’m looking forward to the progress.”