Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit recently visited the ongoing Cable Car project in the Roseau Valley, emphasizing its potential to attract more visitors from cruise ships once completed. He noted that additional facilities, such as proper washrooms, change rooms, restaurants, and bars, are needed to enhance the visitor experience.
During his site visit, Skerrit announced that over 200 people, mostly locals, are currently employed on the project in Laudat. Workers have reported being paid approximately 25 percent more than usual, leading some to hope for construction delays to extend their employment. The project is scheduled for completion by December 2025.
Tourism Minister Denise Charles-Pemberton highlighted the project’s promotion of sustainable tourism with minimal environmental impact. She noted that the Cable Car would make access to Boiling Lake, previously a challenging six-hour hike, more accessible, especially for differently abled individuals and families with children.
This development is expected to increase traffic to the Roseau Valley and create economic opportunities for tour guides, taxi operators, and local businesses.
Parliamentary Representative for the Roseau Valley Constituency, Dr. Irving McIntyre, emphasized the project’s significance for his constituency, noting its economic impact in terms of employment and financial benefits. He mentioned that many workers on the project are from his constituency, boosting the local economy.
McIntyre reassured residents about future employment, citing the upcoming Geothermal Power Plant project as another source of jobs, making unemployment a “thing of the past” for the Roseau Valley.
The Cable Car, spanning 6,600 meters and featuring two stations and 20 support towers, will transport visitors to the Boiling Lake in under 20 minutes. The base station will include an administrative building, concierge station, ticket office, boutiques, boarding area, and food court, while the top station will feature a restaurant and viewing platform.
Skerrit encouraged Roseau Valley residents to position themselves to benefit from the influx of tourists, both directly and indirectly. He believes the project will also promote family outings for Dominicans. The Prime Minister praised the project’s consideration of the natural attributes of Dominica and the integration of necessary amenities.
The Cable Car project is seen as a significant boost to Dominica’s tourism and local economy. Over 200 locals are employed, and completion is expected by December 2025. The project aims to enhance visitor experiences, promote sustainable tourism, and create numerous economic opportunities for the local community.
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