Samaná inaugurated several tourism projects yesterday, Sunday, June 1st, diversifying its offerings for visitors. A renovated Santa Bárbara boardwalk, the refurbished parish church, and the adjacent plaza were among the projects officially opened by the government.
President Luis Abinader led the ceremony, urging the people of Samaná to unite and work together for the comprehensive development of the area, driven by various government projects that seek to enhance its tourism and economic competitiveness.
"Let's work together, let's solve the problems together, let's solve the problems we have to face together. But above all, let's take care of development, and let's take care of our future. Let's take care of it," the president said during the inauguration of the boardwalk.
Abinader emphasized that the key to success lies in community collaboration, stating that "when a society unites, looks toward a common goal, and everyone works to achieve that goal, today is a step forward." He highlighted the promising future of Samaná, urging the government and the population to prepare to take advantage of it, mentioning crucial projects such as Bayport, Port Samaná, and Arroyo Barril.
In addition, he announced the dispatch in the coming days of a Promipyme commission with a special design to strengthen local small businesses, allowing them to benefit from the upcoming tourism growth.
In his speech, Tourism Minister David Collado reaffirmed his commitment to transparency, citizen participation, and the comprehensive transformation of the country's tourist destinations. Addressing authorities, community leaders, and representatives of the sector, Collado emphasized that Samaná is experiencing an unprecedented moment in investment and development.
"That's called commitment, that's called determination, that's called doing things that haven't been done in 50 years and that are happening now. Have confidence that we are working with love and passion, that there is a firm commitment to you, and that, above all else, Samaná is at its best," the minister stated.
Pier
The seafront and complementary works project, with a total investment of RD$553,116,725, covers 1.3 kilometers of Samaná's waterfront. It includes hydraulic solutions to mitigate flooding, a comprehensive revitalization of the urban and recreational space, improved stormwater drainage, construction of an urban and maritime promenade with a bike path (1,115 meters), benches, accessible sidewalks, renovation of the central island and viewpoints, construction of children's sandpits, and signage. General renovations, installation of lighting, and improvements to the stormwater drainage system were also carried out.
Earlier, President Abinader inaugurated the restored Santa Bárbara Parish in Samaná, a project that cost over 24 million pesos. Minister Collado emphasized the symbolic importance of this project, demonstrating the vision of integrating the benefits of tourism with the community and urban planning of tourist destinations. The restoration included improvements to the physical infrastructure and exterior areas, aiming to enhance the church's value and contribute to religious tourism.
The improvements to the church included mahogany cladding of the chancel, allegorical stained glass windows, the making of religious images, a new sacristy, air conditioning, sidewalks, curbs, a perimeter fence, lighting, and grottoes with images of Saint Joseph and Saint Barbara.
Finally, the president inaugurated the park gazebo in front of the church, revitalizing another key public space for residents and visitors.
Photo: External source.
