French Polynesia is planning major infrastructure projects to improve transportation and boost tourism. Challenges include limited land and balancing development with environmental concerns. Progress has been made in enhancing connectivity between islands, and maritime projects aim to improve cargo capacity and security.
1. What major transportation infrastructure projects is your ministry planning for French Polynesia in the near future, and what strategies does the government have to enhance the country's infrastructure?
We have three significant transport projects underway. Firstly, there's the International Airport project in the Marquesas Islands. The Marquesas, one of French Polynesia's five archipelagos, boasts stunning landscapes, rich archaeology, and vibrant culture, making it a prime tourist destination. Given its proximity to Hawaii, we see potential in tapping into tourist traffic from that region.
To kickstart this endeavor, we're launching a feasibility study by mid-year to explore three options for transforming the Nuku Hiva airport: a full-fledged International Airport for long-haul flights, a regional airport catering to medium aircraft bound for destinations within a six-hour radius, or an upgraded local airport with maintenance facilities and expanded parking to alleviate congestion at Tahiti's Faa'a International Airport.
Whichever option we pursue, substantial investments will be required not only in airport infrastructure but also in ancillary facilities such as hotels to accommodate increased tourist activity. Therefore, our studies will extend beyond airport boundaries to plan holistic island development across Nuku Hiva and other Marquesas Islands.
Given the anticipated costs, which should surpass 100 million dollars we're considering public-private partnerships for construction and operation, with the bidding process likely to commence by the end of next year following the initiation of the feasibility study in mid-year. This approach could attract private sector investment, easing the financial burden on the government and offering lucrative opportunities for interested investors.
Another significant project is the South Road initiative, which addresses the chronic congestion issue in Tahiti. Currently, the 25-kilometer journey from Pa'ea to Papeete along the heavily populated West Coast can take up to one and a half hours during peak times, averaging just 17 kilometers per hour. This congestion is exacerbated by accidents, as Tahiti's sole road runs along the coastal plains.
The proposed solution involves constructing a new inland road closer to the mountains, aiming to significantly reduce travel times. Initial studies for this project have commenced, marking the beginning of what could be a decade-long endeavor. While still in its early stages, the project carries an estimated cost of 100 million dollars.
Before proceeding, we must secure approval from local municipalities and garner support from the community. If realized, this project would alleviate many of the population's transportation challenges, marking a significant step forward. Despite its ambitious scope, we are committed to advancing this initiative to fruition.
The third project focuses on enhancing public transportation and expanding cycling infrastructure. Currently, private vehicles dominate the transportation landscape, accounting for approximately 70% of all trips, while public transport and bicycles represent a mere 5% and 2%, respectively.
To address this imbalance and alleviate congestion, our aim is to bolster the network of dedicated lanes for both public transport and cycling. By doing so, we not only seek to reduce traffic congestion but also aim to enhance accessibility for local residents, making transportation more affordable and efficient.
Over the next two years, our focus will primarily be on developing these infrastructure improvements within the Papeete urban area, particularly in Faa'a and Papeete. Anticipating the increased use of cycling infrastructure, we foresee a rise in businesses catering to cyclists' needs.
Moreover, recognizing the limitations of our current bus fleet, comprised mainly of 40-passenger capacity buses, we plan to acquire larger buses capable of accommodating higher passenger volumes. This strategic move is essential to meet growing demand and prevent the system from becoming overwhelmed by congestion.
By investing in these initiatives, we aim to not only improve transportation options but also foster economic growth and enhance the overall quality of life for residents in French Polynesia.
Another notable project, although not strictly transportation-related, is the development of parcel AM 20, situated directly across from the Ferry Building in Papeete. The Ferry Building serves as a gateway for approximately 2,000,000 passengers annually, many of whom are headed to the nearby island of Moorea, a popular destination for tourists visiting French Polynesia.
Recognizing the strategic significance of this location, our vision entails the construction of a mixed-use building to accommodate tourists transitioning through Tahiti on their way to Moorea. With limited accommodation options in Tahiti, especially for short stays, we see an opportunity to address this gap while also meeting the demand for residential and commercial space in Papeete.
To realize this vision, we intend to issue a call for proposals to both local and international private sector entities. The estimated cost of the project is approximately $50 million, welcoming bids from American and other international companies.
An innovative aspect of this project involves connecting the Ferry Building to the new development via a bridge. Currently, passengers disembarking at the Ferry Building must navigate through road traffic to reach their destination. By establishing a direct connection, we aim to streamline pedestrian flow and enhance the attractiveness of the new building.
This initiative not only addresses the practical needs of travelers but also contributes to the overall urban development and efficiency of transportation infrastructure in Papeete.
We are also planning to introduce car sharing services in French Polynesia. Recognizing the potential benefits of such a system, we have initiated a call for proposals to kickstart this project.
2. What specific challenges do you encounter in improving transportation infrastructure in an island environment like that of French Polynesia?
Improving transportation infrastructure in an island environment like French Polynesia presents several unique challenges, primarily stemming from the scarcity of available land. French Polynesian islands, including Tahiti and others, are predominantly volcanic, characterized by rugged, mountainous terrain. Constructing roads in such environments incurs significantly higher costs due to the challenging topography.
Historically, the preferred approach has been to build roads in flatter, plains areas where land is more readily available. However, these flat areas are limited in number, leading to a compromise between land availability and meeting the population's transportation needs. This scarcity of suitable land has contributed to persistent congestion issues, as accommodating growing traffic demands becomes increasingly difficult.
Navigating this balance between land availability and infrastructure requirements is a continuous challenge in French Polynesia. As the population and tourism industry grow, the pressure to develop transportation networks intensifies, necessitating innovative solutions to overcome the limitations imposed by the island environment's geographical constraints.
3. What progress has been made so far in improving connectivity between the different islands of French Polynesia?
In French Polynesia has 78 habited islands and 46 airports (comprising 45 local airports and one international), enhancing connectivity has been a priority in recent years. This has been achieved by fostering competition, particularly in the air transport sector.
Locally, within French Polynesia, the introduction of competition has resulted in the emergence of two main local airlines: Air Tahiti and Air Moana, with the latter established in 2021. The entry of Air Moana into the market has led to a noticeable decrease in airfare prices, benefiting consumers. This trend towards increased competition is something we aim to encourage further.
Similarly, in the international arena, there has been a diversification of airlines serving Tahiti. Previously dominated by carriers like Air France, Air New Zealand, and Hawaiian Airlines, the market has expanded to include United, French Bee, and Delta Airlines. This influx of interest from airlines reflects the growing tourism sector in French Polynesia, ultimately providing travelers with more options and contributing to the overall connectivity of the region.
4. What maritime projects are you currently working on?
We have several infrastructure projects underway aimed at enhancing the efficiency and security of our transportation facilities. One notable project is the upcoming inauguration of the international terminal and cruise terminal in April of this year. This development will not only improve passenger comfort but also ensure compliance with international security standards.
Additionally, we are undertaking the reconstruction of the quay, which serves as the primary point of embarkation and disembarkation for international cargo. This reconstruction is being carried out in two phases, with the first 200 meters already completed and the remaining 200 meters scheduled for completion by next year. The original quay, dating back 50 years, needed to be replaced to meet modern standards.
In conjunction with the reconstruction of the quay, we are also planning to deepen both the quay itself and the surrounding passageway. This is essential to accommodate the evolving needs of international cargo companies, such as CMA-CGM, which anticipate increasing their cargo capacity from 3000 to 4000-5000 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) by 2026. To accommodate these larger vessels, we plan to deepen the passageway to 14 meters, compared to the current depths of 12 meters for the passageway and 10.5 meters for the quay.
5. What are you most proud of in your personal and professional life?
I've had the opportunity to embark on a diverse and enriching professional journey that has taken me across borders and immersed me in various cultures. My time at the World Bank in Washington, DC allowed me to engage with different regions, from Africa to the Caribbean, and even led me to spend a year working with the United Nations in Haiti.
For five years, I dedicated myself to the cause of alleviating poverty in these countries, an experience that was both fulfilling and, at times, challenging. While I found immense satisfaction in my work, I also grappled with the realization that true development and poverty alleviation must be driven by the local communities themselves.
This realization ultimately led me back to French Polynesia, my homeland, where I felt a deep-seated desire to contribute to the development of my own country. It's not just a professional endeavor for me; it's a personal commitment to making a positive impact on the place I call home.
6. What is your final message to Newsweek readers considering French Polynesia as a potential investment and tourism destination?
Just come to Tahiti!
