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Storm drainage cleanup near Fiesta short of funds
The Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality is still short of the $40,000 they need to complete storm drainage cleanup around the Paseo de Marianas and Fiesta Resort and Spa Saipan.
Runoff pollution is cited as a major reason for the red flags in the nearby lagoon; however, an interagency project to clean up primary and secondary drainages has since stalled due to lack of funds.
BECQ administrator Frank Rabauliman said they recently looked to the governor’s Capital Improvements Office for help. He said they met with CIP personnel to look over the greater plans they had for improvements in Garapan. However, the current phase of work, around the former Coffee Room restaurant, is already contracted out and not the site they are looking at.
“We are trying to work with CIP to see if there is any possibilities of raising the level of priority for that area,” he said.
“I am asking CIP for $25,000. That will bring it up to” $40,000, he said, noting the $15,000 the Marianas Visitors Authority has already contributed.
“I’m hoping that’s enough to flush out all the laterals into the main canal, and pump out however much we have into that main canal,” he said.
According to the CIP office, the “Garapan Water Quality Project” has been contracted to Maeda Pacific Corp. for $2.05 million.
Notice to proceed was given last August. Date of completion is this June 24.
The project aims to eliminate existing health hazards created by stormwater runoffs discharging into the lagoon and to enhance the major tourism district, making it visibly appealing and economically vibrant to tourists.
The proposed construction activity is located within the Alaihai Ave., Puti Tainobu Ave., Filooris Ave., Bukiki Ave., Kalachucha Ave., and Orchid St. in Garapan.
The scope of work includes removal of existing structures and facilities and construction of new drainage systems and installation of new underground infiltration chambers and upgraded paved streets with sidewalks and landscaped areas including a bio-retention facility, which filters sediments and contaminants from stormwater runoff.
