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MVA and partners clear the Sugar King Park
One of Saipan’s most historic landmarks, Sugar King Park, is accessible to the public again following Friday’s cleanup by the Marianas Visitors Authority, Japan Saipan Travel Association, and the Japanese Society of the Northern Mariana Islands.
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- In aftermath of Typhoon Soudelor, fallen trees and mangled rails were cleared at Saipan’s historic Sugar King Park on Aug. 21, 2015. From left are Ryan Calvo, Ray Villagomez, David Song, and Martin Duenas of the Marianas Visitors Authority. (MVA)
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- Fallen trees and other debris was cleared from the Katori shrine at Saipan’s historic Sugar King Park on Aug. 21, 2015. From left are Hiroko Tenorio, Eri Nagashima, Kazuyo Estrada, and Katsuko Takahashiof the Japanese Society of the Northern Mariana Islands. (MVA)
The Sugar King himself, represented by a statue of Japanese-era sugar industry entrepreneur Haruji Matsue, appeared unscathed overlooking the park, but volunteers spent several hours cutting and piling fallen trees, broken branches, and other debris for removal to make the park accessible.
The wooden structure of the Saipan Katori Shrine at the park was significantly damaged and will need to be restored, as well as railings and other features.
“Many hands make light work, and our collaborative effort on Friday with JSTA and the Japanese Society made a lot of improvement at the park,” said MVA Community Projects Manager Martin Duenas. “Our industry partners are working with us diligently to help restore our popular visitor sites and help ensure our visitors enjoy their time here.”
The pathways throughout the park are now largely accessible, although the nature trail through the nearby hillside still needs to be cleared. (MVA)
