Route 323 officially opens

Nearly a year after breaking ground, the Commonwealth Ports Authority in collaboration with the Department of Public Works officially unveiled the completed Route 323 or “Industrial Drive” through a ribbon cutting ceremony last Friday.

CPA, joined by DPW, CNMI government officials and personnel, and members of the CNMI community, officially opened Route 323 via a ribbon cutting ceremony last Friday.

Route 323, or Industrial Drive, is the strip of road stretching from behind the Army Reserve to the CNMI Seaport.

Seaport committee chair Pete P. Reyes stated that to unveil a project that has been long overdue, is special especially since Route 323 is vital in the transportation of goods from the Seaport to CNMI consumers.

“CPA is the gateway to economic development, so having to fix this road is very important for all the users. This project has been long awaited and I’m proud to say that today, it’s a reality,” he said.

Reyes stated that the improvements made to Industrial Drive is important as it essentially makes the transportation of goods easier which will ultimately contribute to boosting the CNMI economy.

“We understand the importance of efficient transportation which is why this project has been a priority for our agency and port users. This construction of this road has been a substantial investment for our island, one that we are confident will yield significant return. This new road will increase economic activity and attract new businesses to the area. It will also improve the efficiency and transportation of goods to and from ports reducing congestion and travel time,” he said.

The Seaport committee chair finished by thanking all those who contributed to making the renovations to Route 323, a reality.

“I want to thank all who made this possible; Saipan and Northern Islands Legislative Delegation for their appropriation of funds to help. And also, other government agencies that supported this project as well as the private companies that helped in the construction of this road. In addition, Saipan Stevedore made a huge contribution to this project. Most importantly, I want to thank the community who has been patient throughout this construction process. This road will benefit everyone, and we are grateful for all the support and cooperation we have received,” he said.

Gov. Arnold I. Palacios, who took part in the unveiling of Route 323, shared that going through Route 323 last Friday was the first time he went through the strip of road without having to maneuver through massive potholes.

This, he said, was a testament to the efforts the Commonwealth is making in its infrastructure.

“I think this is the first time in a long time that all of us did not have to navigate around potholes, steer clear of uneven pavement, or maneuver road damage to drive through Industrial Drive. In fact, it was quite a pleasant drive here, especially with the Gov. Eloy S. Inos Peace Park and our beautiful Pacific Ocean serving as the backdrop. Having just celebrated another road project ribbon cutting last week, the completion of the Route 323 project, or Industrial Drive Road Improvement project, is another testament to our Commonwealth’s determination to see through infrastructure progress and, ultimately, the betterment of our island community,” he said.

Palacios said the completion of Route 323 represents another major step toward a more connected and better maintained infrastructure for the CNMI.

“The improved access and the capacity of the new Industrial Road to withstand heavier loads will undoubtedly lend to the efficiency of the movement of goods, enhanced safety, and the economic activity of our islands and the improved quality of life for all our residents,” he said.

According to Saipan Tribune archives, CPA and DPW officially broke ground on the Route 323 project last October 2022.