Lifting the profile at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) is what the government aims to do with the signing of three new contracts worth almost $600 million.
These contracts are separate from the ongoing modernization works being done by China Harbour Engineering Corporation (CHEC) which is slated to be completed by December 2021.
With CHEC still to install two additional corridors for boarding bridges and final touches to the commercial space, works will soon begin on a new office building for CJIA staff.
That contract for a design was awarded to the tune of $25 million but another two- storey building to the tune of $513 million will be completed to house airline, law enforcement and other support staff at the airport.
The third contract for $25 million was also awarded for upgraded to a deplorable runway Charlie currently used for parking by the airlines.
Public works Minister Juan Edghill was present at the signing ceremony along with Chief Executive Officer of the CJIA Ramesh Ghir.
Edghill said the additional works are being done at the request of the Corporation.
“We don’t sign contracts and sleep; I expect tomorrow morning work begins.
“I frown on contracts – once signed contractors coming back with variations… that’s not something I take lightly because once you bid you should have studied what you are seeking to do,” Edghill said.
He told the contractors that the works will be done during the peak period and should be executed cognizant of the other ongoing works and with limited interruption to the other operations at the airport.
Ghir explained that with the construction of the new office building, it will also free up space for more commercial activity. He explained that a duty free bond will also be built at the airport.
Upgrades works at the CJIA have been ongoing for several years now.
