March 12, 2010 No. 8/10-BD BAHAMAS TRANSPORTATION PROJECT TO GET CDB FINANCING The Government of The Bahamas is to receive a loan equivalent to USD10.109 million from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), and a technical assistance grant equivalent to USD37,000. This financing is for a project which will improve and sustain access to social and economic infrastructure necessary for employment and income generation in the Family Islands of The Bahamas. Under the project, Fresh Creek Dock in Central Andros will be rehabilitated, as well as Three Island Dock on Eleuthera. Deep Creek and Little Creek bridges in South Andros will also be rehabilitated. Technical assistance will also be provided for the preparation of feasibility studies and designs for other road and port infrastructure works proposed for Abaco and Great Exuma. More than 700 islands and cays make up The Bahamas, making adequate air, sea and road infrastructure critical to accessing social and economic services. By assuring connectivity between, and within, the islands, the project facilitates the further development of the fishing, agriculture and Tourism sectors on the two islands. The project accords with the strategy of the Government to provide opportunities for economic diversification through the upgrading of social and economic infrastructure on the Family Islands.