The first concrete of the new Soualiga Marketplace is now in place, following the pouring of its foundation and floor slab, with Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication Grisha Heyliger-Marten on hand to witness the event.
The work on Thursday moves the project from its preparatory stage into full construction. In the weeks ahead, the public will begin to see the structure itself take shape.
Minister Heyliger-Marten said, “It is a place where people earn a living, where visitors encounter something authentically St. Maarten, and where our small entrepreneurs should be able to work with dignity and confidence. The foundation being poured means we are moving beyond plans and procedures into a phase where people can finally see the new Soualiga Marketplace becoming real.”
The project has required months of work on design coordination, technical reviews, permits, contract administration and financing before construction could advance to this point. TEATT has confirmed that the major materials needed for the next stages are now on island, allowing activity at and around the site to increase.
Heyliger-Marten said the Ministry’s focus is on delivering a marketplace that serves its vendors properly while improving an important part of the visitor experience in Philipsburg.
“We should not be satisfied with simply replacing a structure,” she said. “Our vendors deserve a marketplace that is practical, welcoming and worthy of the products and services they offer. St. Maarten’s visitors should leave with a stronger connection to the people and enterprise behind our destination.”
The new Soualiga Marketplace is planned to include improved accessibility, upgraded infrastructure, better pedestrian movement and public facilities, creating a more organized and modern setting for local vendors.
As construction intensifies, the Ministry is asking motorists and pedestrians to respect barriers, signs and traffic directions in and around the project area. Parking on sidewalks or within restricted construction zones is prohibited and may lead to enforcement action, including towing.
TEATT will continue to update vendors and the public as the reconstruction proceeds.
