Garapan mall project to take next step

The ongoing construction of the multi-million Garapan Pedestrian Mall will take a significant step by the end of next week, with the laying of concrete along the street to be completed by that time.

According to project coordinator Bill Wanket of the Department of Public Works, this will result in the removal of the barriers that are currently present in the area.

“Once that is completed, the barriers will go down and people will then be able to walk from one end to another,” he said. “Access will be open.”

He cautioned, though, that people should be careful as construction work would still continue.

“The earthwork is all done, and there will be no barriers except for the cosmetic work, which includes landscaping, lights and coral stone finish on shelters,” he said.

Wanket said trash receptacles and benches have arrived and are now being installed.

He confirmed that the project is “on schedule” to meet its October 7, 2004 deadline. Construction began on January 13, 2004.

Also, Wanket said the issue on implementing four-way and three-way stops at the main intersection of the area along Beach Road is still under discussion. “We’ve had some people raising concerns on the idea, so that is still being discussed.”

Last month, Wanket said a four-way stop would be implemented by the Winchell’s Donut Shop and a three-way stop at the Micro Beach Road intersection.

He also said traffic lights would eventually be installed at both intersections upon availability of funds.

Another project, dubbed the Coral Tree Avenue Improvement Project, would soon begin and includes adding about 80 to 100 trees and new sidewalks along the strip. The project also features the placing of power lines underground, as well as the installation of light posts similar to the ones along the Beach Road Pathway.

“At the end of the project, there would be no parking along the road. There are a lot of encroachments; those would be removed as well,” he said.

Both projects are part of the $25-million Garapan Revitalization Project, aimed at transforming the image of the hotel district into a family-oriented area and a safe focal point for tourist and resident activities, including strolling, outdoor dining, outdoor musical entertainment, and festivities.. The mall is the third phase of the project.

The project is expected to generate at least $200 million in revenue for the government within the four-year period of the revitalization.