Regional Government kicks off statutory visit with solutions for challenges facing Santa Maria Island - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The Regional Government's statutory visit to the island of Santa Maria in 2025 began today with a meeting between the Government of the Azores, led by José Manuel Bolieiro, and the municipal council of Vila do Porto, chaired by Bárbara Chaves.

This institutional meeting served to consolidate the relations between the Regional Government and the local authority in a spirit of collaboration and transparency.

“It was a meeting that enabled us to identify the problems and, from there, define paths for specific solutions,” emphasised the President of the Azorean Government.

The meeting addressed local priorities, assessed available means and resources, and identified key concerns and ambitions for the development of the island of Santa Maria.

Among the topics highlighted was housing, an area in which the Regional Government has made significant investments.

The government official highlighted the ongoing intervention in the airport's housing estate, a structural project representing an investment of about 35 million Euros.

"It is a demanding technical and organisational task, but it is necessary to provide Santa Maria with a solid housing solution," he said.

Simultaneously, a public tender is underway for the construction of another four houses in the Lombas II housing development. The deadline for the submission of proposals ends on July 12. This initiative was launched on June 13, 2025, and reiterates the Government's commitment to creating a housing supply that meets local needs.

“The Regional Government acknowledges the existing shortcomings, but is also proud of the work that has been done. Unlike in the past, this Government is truly committed to delivering and not postponing,” emphasised José Manuel Bolieiro.

Other issues relevant to the island were also discussed, such as water supply for agriculture, maritime transport of goods, and investments in health care. In all these areas, the Regional Government confirmed its commitment to continue taking action with a strategic vision and proximity.

The Regional Government leader also delivered a message of confidence and pride: "Santa Maria has extraordinary potential. We are preparing the island so that it can contribute, with its capabilities, to its development and the progress of the Azores as a whole."

The Regional Government's statutory visit to Santa Maria ends on Thursday.