TCIs First Ports Authority Director honoured in Opening of $4 Million Complex

Deandrea Hamilton

Editor

Turks and Caicos, April 11, 2025 – The new $4 Million, 8,000 square foot home of the Ports Authority at South Dock, Providenciales is named in honour of the man who was the first to hold the position of director; the late Clinton Hugh Wilson; a dedication ceremony cemented his legacy as a visionary leader.

“His contributions help to shape the very institutions that protect our borders and support our economy. He was a man of vision, integrity and action. One who saw the importance of strong institutions and dedicated his life to building them.

Although Mr. Wilson is no longer with us today his presence is felt in the very fabric of our law enforcement and port operation. His work laid the foundation for the continued group and modernization of this critical sector and today we assure that his name and legacy live on in a meaningful way,” said Arlington Musgrove, Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Developments.

The opening and dedication event was held on Friday April 4, 2025 and featured a string of tribute remarks from the territory’s governor, Her Excellency Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam; Hon Arlington Musgrove, the Minister of Public Works with responsibility for the Ports, Wilson’s former colleagues and his own family.  There was a stirring tribute song by his daughter, Alyssa and a gracious acceptance speech delivered by his wife, Sheba Wilson.

“This moment means more than words can truly express for our family. It’s a reminder that his labour was not in vain, that his sacrifices, his sleepless nights, his unwavering integrity, and his tireless service to this country have not been forgotten.

To have his name now etched into the very structure of the Port Authority, an institution which he helped to build is fitting and powerful. It’s not just a building. It is a monument to his vision, to his commitment and to his quiet, but steadfast leadership.

For his children, this moment is especially meaningful. You all now have a physical place where your father‘s legacy lives on a place that you can point to and say that’s my dad,” shared Sheba Wilson.

The late, Mr. Wilson, also affectionately called ‘TC’ was a pioneering member of the SPICE Unit and was an expert enforcement agent and is credited with, “setting up the operational framework of the Ports Authority.”

“It takes vision. It takes determination and it takes hard work, rolling up your sleeves to drive delivery; so today really is a day for the Wilson family for the Minister and for the whole entire team of the Port Authority.  It is no small feat to get here, but particularly to deliver major infrastructure whilst you’re also ensuring the day-to-day operations and business continuity of the Port Authority, so I’d like to just say today, thanks on behalf of everyone for all that you have done in driving this and your service to this nation. As we cut the ribbon today, let it not just be about the opening of a building but really the acknowledgment of the foundational pillars that you have built to enable the progression and the economic success of the Turks and Caicos Islands,” shared Governor Daniel-Selvaratnam, when she brought remarks.

The new complex was described as a major step toward modernizing the maritime infrastructure of the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Clinton Wilson Port Complex sits at South Dock and initiates the roll out of several other key developments.

“It’s a one stop for all things shipping; with four rental units housing key stakeholders, government departments, such as Border Service and the Traffic Department and Ports Authority is designed to make operations smoother, more efficient and precise.  Just as important, it creates a safe well-equipped environment for our staff to thrive. They deserve this. They deserve the best and we intend to give it to them.  At over 8,000 square feet and about $4 million invested, this is the first major “visible” step in the broader plan to redevelop South Dock, Providenciales.

This building is only the beginning; it’s the flagship of a bigger vision and in that same spirit, I am incredibly proud and honored to pay tribute to one of the founding fathers of the Ports Authority,” said Tueton Williams, Chairman of the Board of the Ports Authority.

Within the next two months, a new berth will be opened at South Dock; expanding capacity due to the ability to simultaneously accommodate a containerized boat and a barge.  The new docking space will free up the current berth at South Dock and eventually deliver an import/export hub capable of serving more ships, faster.

“It will not only improve our operational capabilities but also enhance our ability to serve our community and our partners. it represents the significant investment in our future, and we are confident that it will play a crucial role in our continued growth and success,” said Lynco Williams, Project Manager.

With family and friends looking on, the project manager welcomed audiences virtually and in person.

“The commissioning of the Clinton Wilson Port Complex marks a significant milestone in the redevelopment of South Dock. This complex, the first component of the South Dock redevelopment project represents a crucial step towards establishing a world class logistics hub for the Turks and Caicos Islands.

This project’s completion could not have been possible without the dedication, vision and collaborative spirit of numerous stakeholders. We extend our deepest appreciation to the government of the Turks & Caicos Islands and the various departments for unwavering support, consistent funding and enduring commitment to the South Dock redevelopment project,” informed Delton Jones, Director of the TCI Ports Authority.

A bundle of keys, giving access to the multi-service building were handed over by Stephen Walkin of AEMS Construction who thanked the Ports Authority for the opportunity. AEMS Construction delivered the project on budget and within near perfect timing; it was said to be just a few days off the target in a job saluted as well done.

“We express our sincere thanks to the architects and engineers whose expert expertise transformed the initial concepts into a functional, sustainable and aesthetically pleasing design. We commend the exceptional work of our contractors, A&S and their subcontractors; their professionalism and focus on quality with instrumental in achieving the milestone.  The invaluable feedback of our port users significantly shaped the functionality of this complex, ensuring it meets their operational needs effectively. We deeply appreciate your input.”

Also attending the event from TCIG were:  HE, Anya Williams, Deputy Governor; Hon Jamell Robinson, Deputy Premier and Border Services Minister; Hon Jameka Williams, Deputy Speaker; Shaun Malcolm, Minister of Home Affairs; Rachel Taylor, MP for the area and Minister of Education, Youth and Sports; Zhavago Jolly, Minister of Tourism, Agriculture and Environment, other House of Assembly members including Hon Sammy Been and Hon Willin Belliard along with Delthia Misick, First lady of the Turks and Caicos Islands.