Grand Bahama International Airport in Freeport is getting a new air traffic control tower this month, complete with state-of-the-art communications equipment and hurricane-resistant viewing windows.

The airport, one of the largest privately-owned airports in the world, lost its original tower when Hurricane Frances pummeled Grand Bahama in 2004.

"Since then, air traffic controllers have been operating out of a FAA-approved control mobile trailer. This new tower will bring the airport facilities back up to FAA status," said Mike Dack, project manager for Reef Cavalier Joint Venture Ltd, the primary contractor.

Reef Cavalier joined with Grand Bahama Airport Company in awarding AJT & Associates the $1 million-plus contract.

"The new four position tower - complete with three-position radar control, weather position and remote stations - is more spacious and designed with the air traffic controller in mind," said Peter Deeks, AJT's senior vice president and director of engineering.