National

“This Project Will Really Help The People of Blackpoint”

EXUMA, BAHAMAS – Ground was broken on a multi-million-dollar resort development in the Exumas Thursday – government officials, developers, and residents gathered on Sampson Cay to break ground on the $200 million Rosewood Resort.

Published

5 months ago

September 5, 2025

Delvardo Emmanuel

EXUMA, BAHAMAS – It was the moment everyone waited for – the marking of the groundbreaking for the highly anticipated $200 million Rosewood Resort at Sampson Cay.

Leading the charge was developer Felipe MacLean, the CEO of Yntegra group.

MacLean told residents the project has been years in the making.

“ Our vision is to bring balance, economic growth that strengthens. Exuma is standing as a premier global destination while protecting the breathtaking natural beauty, that makes this island so extraordinary,” MacLean said.

Sampson Cay is located approximately 55-60 nautical miles northwest of Black Point.

Despite the inclement weather, eager residents in raincoats jumped on boats to make their way to the island to witness the grand occasion.

Prime Minister Philip Davis, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism Chester Cooper described the project as a symbol of confidence in the family islands and a new wave of opportunity.

Prime Minister Philip Davis –
“ This groundbreaking carries a message of hope. It tells that they can build their future at home, [and] they can find training careers and opportunities without leaving the communities they love,” Davis said.

Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper, Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation

“ We think of the economic impact, the lives that it will affect, the quality of lives of people who will be able to send their children to college,… [who will] have a better way of life as a result of these developments,” Cooper said.

Despite the rainy start to the day, residents didn’t let the weather dampen how they feel about the project.

Lauri Rolle – Resident, Blackpoint

“ It can benefit everyone, the locals need it. During the off season, a lot of the places [are] closed, so it will benefit a lot of them. It’ll also bring business to the [locals] here on the island,” she said.

Tyrone Watson – Resident, Exuma Cays

“ It would really help a lot of the [natives] from really leaving the island and heading somewhere else to find employment, and…it’ll help to improve the island,” he said.

On behalf of Rosewood Hotels, Vice President of Development Paul Arnold said the project is about more than luxury, it’s about leaving a legacy.

Construction is expected to span the next several years, and ribbon cutting is set for 2026 as Rosewood Exuma is set to join the country’s portfolio of premier luxury resorts.