Some 120 workers and 10 sub-contractors are working at a frenetic pace to bring a vision to life. But this is no ordinary vision—it’s the vision of acclaimed architect Frank Gehry. His buildings attract visitors from around the world with seemingly impossible shapes and structures. And soon, Panama will become the only country in Latin America to boast a Frank Gehry-designed structure. Government sources say, prepare for a big boost in tourism in Panama.
The building will house Panama’s new Bridge of Life museum, planned to highlight the Panama isthmus and its unique role on the planet as a biological corridor. Panama is not only one of the most biologically diverse places in the world, but it is also home to some of the world’s most studied ecosystems. As the museum helps increase tourism to Panama, visitors will be able to visit the bio-museum and truly being to understand how important these ecosystems are.
About Frank Gehry Designs: Spreading the Word
César Kiamco, the engineer in charge of executing Gehry’s vision in Panama, says the project consists of two major phases. During phase one, he will oversee the completion of the foundation and the concrete and steel “skeleton” of the building. According to Kiamco, phase one of the bio-museum will be complete by the 2010 yearend.
As for phase two, says Kiamco, “It will take us another year to finish the interior.” But if all goes to plan, Panama’s first Frank Gehry building will open its doors to the public at the end of 2011.
To get locals and tourists excited about the project, the bio-museum administration recently put up a series of colorful billboards. The posters have been placed along the construction site, so walkers and joggers visiting the tourist strip known as the Amador Causeway can learn more about Gehry and the bio-museum.
Why are Frank Gehry’s buildings so special? Per Kiamco, they are completely unique. “Everything is meticulously thought-out,” he says, adding that for him the fun and challenge lays in the way Gehry’s seemingly impossible designs are made physically viable.
The museum is already about 75% complete according to reports in La Prensa. Some $59 million have been spent so far; local sources have yet to reveal estimates for the final cost. According to museum spokespeople, the entire project will be funded via the sale of highly coveted land in the Amador sector of Panama City, where the museum is located.
Tourism in Panama: Museum to Bring in $60 Million
Is the expense justified? Absolutely. One completed, government officials estimate the museum will contribute to an approximately $60 million a year rise in tourism sales. The Amador Foundation says the museum’s effect on tourism in Panama will be comparable to that of the Panama Canal.
Says Kiamco: “It’s a work of art; a little jewel. This is the perfect place for Panamanians to learn about—and learn to value—this marvelous, diverse country.”
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