INFRASTRUCTURE development is the Bali regional government’s focus in the next four years as it aims to link the different regencies on the island and upgrade its ports.
I Ketut Sudikerta, vice governor of Bali said: “We are currently doing a feasibility study to connect Badung and Buleleng with a toll road. We expect to open a tender next year and then we can start development.”
Speaking to the media during Bali and Beyond Travel Fair 2015, Sudikerta said good accessibility will attract investments in other tourism infrastructure such as hotels and tourist attractions in the north, where a new airport has also been planned.
The regional government is also developing a ring road between Denpasar and Badung and improving existing main roads in several areas in the north.
“It is useless to build an airport now without good access,” he said.
In the meantime, the regional government also wants to upgrade its ports. Tanah Ampo port in Karang Asem is envisioned as a port for cruises while Benoa harbour continues to be developed into a turn-around port, according to Sudikerta.
The vice governor also took the opportunity to appeal to potential investors. “We all know that the economy is slowing down, but please do not keep your money in the bank. Please, continue to invest and develop Bali and keep the economic wheel rolling,” said Sudikerta.
