PUNTA CANA, Dominican Republic — In a major nod to one of the Dominican Republic’s most iconic tourism pioneers, the Senate has officially passed legislation to rename the Eastern Tourist Boulevard in La Altagracia as the Frank Rainieri Tourist Boulevard. The bill, now ratified on second reading, pays tribute to Rainieri’s pivotal role in transforming Punta Cana into a global travel destination.
A National Tribute to a Tourism Icon
The proposal, introduced by Senator Francisco Villegas of the Modern Revolutionary Party (PRM), celebrates Frank Rainieri’s profound impact on tourism, economic development, and community progress throughout the region. With full Senate support—24 votes in favor—the bill has now been forwarded to the Executive Branch for final approval.
This renaming reflects a broader recognition of Rainieri’s leadership and legacy in shaping what is now one of the Caribbean’s most visited regions. His work has not only elevated the Dominican Republic’s global tourism profile but has also spurred thousands of jobs and strengthened infrastructure in Punta Cana and beyond.
Ministries to Implement and Promote the Name Change
As part of the new law, the Ministry of Tourism is tasked with promoting the Frank Rainieri Tourist Boulevard on a national and international level. In parallel, the Ministry of Public Works will provide the necessary funding and logistical support to update signage and integrate the new name across official records and maps.
This initiative aims to ensure that locals and international visitors alike recognize the contribution of the man whose vision helped put Punta Cana on the world map.
From Dream to Destination: The Legacy of Frank Rainieri
Frank Rainieri’s tourism journey began in 1969, when he and American lawyer Theodore Kheel acquired land in a then-remote part of eastern Dominican Republic. Their partnership led to the establishment of the Punta Cana Club in 1971, followed by the Punta Cana Hotel in 1979, and ultimately, the opening of the Punta Cana International Airport in 1984.
These groundbreaking developments laid the foundation for what is now known as Grupo Puntacana, a major economic and environmental force in the country. Today, the Punta Cana region welcomes millions of travelers each year and is widely recognized as the Dominican Republic’s crown jewel of tourism.
Eastern Boulevard: A Vital Tourism Artery
The Eastern Tourist Boulevard, soon to be renamed, is a strategic highway that links major resorts, attractions, and the Punta Cana International Airport. Rainieri played a key role in the development of this essential road, which has significantly improved accessibility for visitors and reduced travel times across the region.
Renaming this important thoroughfare in his honor not only immortalizes his contributions but also symbolizes the transformation of Punta Cana from rural coastline to international hotspot.
Senate Approval: A United Recognition
The unanimous vote from the Senate showcases bipartisan support for honoring Rainieri’s decades-long commitment to tourism excellence. The move has been widely praised by business leaders, tourism officials, and local communities who view the renaming as a fitting tribute to a visionary who continues to shape the future of the region.
What This Means for Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic
This law underscores the Dominican Republic’s dedication to celebrating the entrepreneurs and innovators who have driven its success on the world stage. As the Ministry of Tourism embarks on global campaigns promoting the Frank Rainieri Tourist Boulevard, it reinforces the country’s commitment to sustainable tourism, visionary leadership, and international recognition.
In Punta Cana, the renaming is more than symbolic—it’s a permanent reminder of how a bold dream in the 1970s gave rise to a world-class destination that has become the heart of Caribbean travel.
