Premier pledges Grandeur for Grand Turk, says he will make a difference  

By Dana Malcolm 

Staff Writer 

#TurksandCaicos, June 12, 2023 – The people of the Turks and Caicos deserve a capital that is beautiful and well equipped according to Premier Washington Misick; he was speaking during the recent Budget Debate as he rattled off a suite of upgrades promised for Grand Turk in this financial year.

Despite being the nation’s capital, a historical treasure trove and responsible for the bulk of visitors to the islands, Grand Turk has long suffered from a lack of sustained development and very few upgrades to its infrastructure; now Misick says he is aiming to fix that.

Referencing the Grand Turk Enhancement and Sustainability Agency (GTESA) he said,

“I know this has taken a long time but as I can say to you everything is now in place to make this a reality,” he promised.  “Investment is urgent to stop levels of urban decay and restore the glorious state of our beloved capital – Cockburn Town has seen consistent degradation over the past years.  I am here to make the difference,” he vowed.

In that vein, included on the list of deliverables for the island which will cost the Government $7 million, is a restoration of Cockburn Town and other historical sites.  Misick said this was crucial to the improvement of the tourism sector.  “We need to have space and activities for our own personal enjoyment and the enjoyment of our visitors,” he maintained.

Also included :

• $1 million for the demolition of derelict buildings
• $2 million for the redevelopment of Middle Street
• $1 million to refurbish the local post office
• $2 million other small and midsized projects

After detailing the geographical boundaries of the island, he said, “I am emphasizing the location so that we understand the level of investment that is needed by both the private sector and Government.”  He maintained that the Government wanted a capital with flourishing retail housing and commercial sectors and swore to make it so.

“Our people deserve a capital with beautifully manicured public spaces, small businesses dotting the landscape and robust commercial activity.”