New traffic pattern complied with only during day

Motorists have been complying with the new traffic pattern along Coral Tree Avenue on Garapan during the day; however, two-way traffic continues at night due to the lack of enforcement.

The one-way pattern was due to the ongoing multi-million Pedestrian Mall project in the area.

According to project coordinator Bill Wanket of the Department of Public Works, the enforcement of the new pattern during the day is positive so far.

“It’s going fine because of the flagmen who are directing traffic, and for the most part, people are concurring with direction,” he said.

Wanket, however, said that two-way traffic resumes at night because “no one is out there to enforce it.”

“I guess its okay for now, but as the project progresses and moves more along the center of Coral Tree Avenue, what’s going to happen is we are going to put up more barriers so that traffic will be limited to one-way only,” he said. “As we go further into the project, heavy equipment will be stationed there, so traffic will be forced to go one-way.”

Wanket said the night enforcement issue would be brought up during a board meeting tomorrow.

The multi-million Pedestrian Mall project in Garapan is on track for completion with workers now on Phase 3 of the project.

Maeda Pacific Corp. general manager Tom Nielson confirmed that the mall project, estimated to cost about $3.31 million, is ahead of schedule. Construction began on Jan 13, 2004 and is expected to be completed by October 7, 2004.

Earlier, Wanket disclosed that four-way and three-way stops would be implemented on the two main intersections in the area—by Winchell’s Doughnut Shop and the Garapan Fire Station—and later traffic lights, depending on availability of funds.

Wanket said construction for another project dubbed the Coral Tree Avenue Improvement Project would soon begin along the avenue. The construction includes adding about 80 to 100 trees along the strip. New sidewalks will be constructed, power lines will be placed underground, and light posts similar to the posts along the Beach Road pathway will be installed.

Both projects are part of the Garapan Revitalization Project, which aims to transform the downtown Garapan area into an attractive and safe focal point for tourist and resident activities, including strolling, outdoor dining, outdoor musical entertainment, and festivities.

The Strategic Economic Development Council first floated the idea of renovating the Garapan area in the late ’90s as part of its tourist-related beautification program.

The mall project is the third phase of the approximately $25-million Garapan Revitalization Project. The Promenade project, which covers the 3rd Street or Hotel Street, includes the setting up of a lighting system, drinking fountains, covered shelters, and public toilets.

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