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Paseo and Garapan improvements underway
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Posted on Oct 25 2016
Improvements to Paseo de Marianas and other sections of Garapan continue to move forward, with the Marianas Visitors Authority now working with an architectural firm to produce construction documents for the pedestrian mall.
The MVA is reviewing architecture, engineering, and landscaping plans under a draft that will include an outdoor stage, new roofs for shaded seating, and street light fixtures for the site.
“Based on our initial conceptual drawing, we are now reviewing 50 percent design plans for [Paseo] with the architect, and we are looking forward to the completion of plans so we can then advertise for a construction contractor,” said MVA product development manager Tatiana Babauta, who oversees destination enhancement projects.
Upgrades to PDM will also include uplighting of trees, new signage, and other changes that will enhance the attractiveness and functionality of the pedestrian mall.
Meanwhile, landscaping in downtown Garapan is also being upgraded. Trees destroyed by Typhoon Soudelor and other causes on Coral Tree Ave. in front of Fiesta Resort & Spa Saipan and Hyatt Regency Saipan have been replaced by new Pink Tacomah or ylang-ylang trees. The two northernmost traffic medians on Beach Rd. in Garapan have also been re-landscaped.
“We’re very excited about all the ongoing projects on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, and our travel partners have expressed it’s making the experience more enjoyable for our visitors, especially projects like the Beach Rd. Pathway relighting and renovation of the bathrooms and trash collection in Marpi,” said Babauta. “These projects benefit visitors and residents alike, and we welcome any community member with questions or suggestions to participate by contacting our Destination Enhancement Committee.”
The MVA has also recently contracted a trash collection company to conduct daily trash collection and street sweeping in downtown Garapan. (MVA)
