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Paseo de Marianas is newest NMI park
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Posted on Oct 15 2004
The government designated yesterday the soon-to-be opened Paseo de Marianas in Garapan as a Commonwealth Park in recognition of its “significant social and economic benefits” to the CNMI.
In a directive issued yesterday, Gov. Juan N. Babauta said these benefits include “an enhanced destination for visitors that translates into greater opportunities for business, a wonderful venue for community cultural and social activities, and an improved drainage system for the Garapan district that protects the environment on which our economy depends.”
The governor designated as Commonwealth Park “the Promenade Street, bounded on the eastern end by Coral Tree Street and on the northern end by Beach Road, the area now designated as Paseo de Marianas…”
With the designation, the Paseo de Marianas shall be under the management of the Division of Parks and Recreation of the Department of Lands and Natural Resources. The division shall promulgate rules and regulations as may be necessary.
The governor said it is important “to ensure these benefits are realized” in keeping with the overall strategic plan for the Garapan revitalization.
In particular, he said that investment in the Paseo de Marianas infrastructure must be protected “through proper operation and maintenance.”
“In this way, the Paseo de Marianas will remain a place where the people of the Commonwealth and visitors can be safe and free to fully enjoy this public plaza,” he said.
The estimated $4 million Paseo de Marianas mall project in Garapan, which began construction in January this year, is expected to have its grand opening next month.
The mall project is the third phase of the approximately $25-million Garapan Revitalization Project.
The mall project, which covers the 3rd Street or Hotel Street, includes the setting up of a lighting system, drinking fountains, covered shelters, and public toilets.
The government said the entire project would generate at least $200 million in revenue within the four-year period of the revitalization.
