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Improved Grotto opened to public
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Posted on Jan 07 2006
Tourists and divers can now visit a new and improved Grotto, which was formally opened to the public Friday morning.
Working up to his last day in office, Gov. Juan N. Babauta led a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Grotto rehabilitation project.
Led by the Department of Lands and Natural Resources, the tourist site enhancement cost the local government $268,000.
The improvements, done by RNV Construction, included the construction of a pavilion, walkways, restrooms, picnic tables and barbecue pits. It also includes a paved parking lot, an improved drainage system, and a lookout ramp for tourists.
Babauta noted that the runoff that once went down into the Grotto has now been redirected to a ponding basin. The traffic congestion has been addressed with a circular driveway and with designated parking for buses and passenger vehicles.
A viewing platform has also been built, allowing people to see the Grotto clearly without having to go down into the Grotto. Bathrooms and water catchments were also constructed to ensure that sanitary standards are maintained.
ÅgIn case you are not aware, our Grotto is the world’s second best cave diving spot. This is something we should all be proud of having,Åh said Marianas Visitors Authority chair David M. Sablan.
ÅgThe Grotto rehabilitation project is a step in the right direction toward bringing in more tourists. We need to take care of these sites so that they do not lose their charm and will continue to fascinate our visitors,Åh Sablan added.
The Grotto, located in Marpi, was chosen as second best diving site during last year’s Dive & Travel Awards. The awards are given by the Marine Art Center Co. Ltd., also the organizer of Japan’s largest dive and travel show, the Marine Diving Fair.
The firm also publishes Marine Diving, Japan’s first and largest scuba diving magazine; Travel Diver, a magazine dedicated to islands and resorts; and Marine Photo, the only monthly magazine in Japan dedicated to underwater photography.
