The Department of Port Administration is forging ahead with plans to upgrade docks in Manu’a and build new docks on Tutuila.
Port Administration Director Barney Sene says before the new fast ferry boats start operating between Tutuila and Manu’a the Ofu, Faleasao, and Ta’u, docks will all have new ferry terminals and be made safer and more efficient.
As we reported recently, bids will be advertised soon for two fast ferry boats that will travel between Tutuila and Manu’a. They will take two years to construct and be delivered.
Construction is progressing well on the Ofu terminal being built by Paramount Construction, said Sene.
Construction of a new LCU dock and ramp will also be part of the Ofu dock improvements. The plan also includes a cafe, convenience store, and gas station at the Ofu dock, to be completed by 2030.
The existing wharf and ramps for LCU at Faleasao wharf will also be upgraded, and a floating concrete dock for the new fast ferries is to be added by 2028. A new ferry terminal, shops, gas station, and road infrastructure are to be completed in the 2032-2033 time period.
At Ta’u, a new 220-feet wharf is to be completed by 2030, and a 120-feet floating dock will be added. Tau wharf will also get a new ferry terminal, shops, gas station, warehouse, and parking area by 2031.
At Fagatogo, major development plans are in the pipeline for three new piers. Sene said there will be an international pier for the Samoa ferry, which will be separate from a new pier for domestic vessels.
There will be a new ferry terminal that will include restaurants, cafes, and shops to be built between the area from the main dock to the Fagatogo marketplace.
