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Beach Road Pathway lighting halted
One of five light post optic glass light diffusers on the Froilan C. Tenorio Beach Road
Pathway damaged by thieves on the evening of May 27 or early morning of May 28,
2016. (Contributed Photo)
The highly anticipated relighting of the Froilan C. Tenorio Beach Road Pathway (formerly the Saipan Beach Pathway) has been abruptly halted due to the theft of newly installed copper wire.
The crime was committed sometime between 4:30pm last May 27 and 7:20am the following day, with over 1,300 feet of copper wire ripped out of the conduits and five light posts damaged.
“What a huge disappointment and misfortune for our community,” said Marianas Visitors Authority managing director Christopher A. Concepcion “Just when we were ready to at least partially re-energize the pathway lights this month, a few people have ruined this opportunity for the entire community.”
The more than $600,000 re-lighting is a destination enhancement project funded by the MVA and contracted by the Department of Public Works. Additional funding was recently approved to make additional repairs caused by Typhoon Soudelor. The crime was reported by contractor RNV when they reported to the job site on May 28, 2016. At first, it was believed only several light posts had been damaged, but the full extent of the theft was discovered upon closer inspection.
An LED light was also stolen, according to MVA.
“We are assured the Department of Public Safety is investigating every possible lead,” said Concepcion. “We strongly encourage anyone with information to call CRIMESTOPPERS at 234-7272. Someone must have seen or heard something, and every little bit of information or tip could help recover the copper wire, bring the responsible parties to justice, and get this project back on track.”
The MVA is also seeking restitution for another light post damaged by an errant driver.
