Power goes underground at Paseo de Marianas

Beginning yesterday, construction crews began the underground installation of the power lines servicing the various establishments along the Paseo de Marianas.

According to project coordinator Bill Wanket of the Department of Public Works, establishments that are part of the mall have been notified of power outages that would affect them between yesterday and Monday, Nov. 1, the expected date for completion of the installations.

“There won’t be any poles on the mall once we’re done,” he said. “All power lines will run underground.”

Wanket and Maeda Pacific Corp. general manager Tom Nielson disclosed that all cables and materials to be installed underground have already been tested by the Commonwealth Utilities Corp.

Aside from the power cables, water service for irrigation and water fountains are currently being addressed.

“We’re going to get our water from Dai-ichi Hotel [Saipan Beach], but Dai-ichi and the Department of Lands and Natural Resources have to sign an agreement before services can [start],” Wanket said.

Also, about seven more shelter covers remain to be installed.

“We’re just putting finishing touches on the mall right now,” Wanket said.

Wanket said the police station—koban—was also renovated and would include a closed circuit television that would enable officers to monitor the mall. About six surveillance cameras would be installed around the mall for security purposes.

Grand opening for the mall is scheduled for Nov. 9. The mall project, estimated to cost about $3.31-million got underway on Jan 13, 2004. It was initially scheduled for completion on Oct. 7, but additional work around the area resulted in the extension of the contract.

The Strategic Economic Development Council first floated the idea of renovating the Garapan area in the late 1990s as part of its tourist-related beautification program.

The mall project is the third phase of the approximately $25-milion Garapan Revitalization Project. The Paeo de Marianas 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 revitalization project 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 government said this project would generate at least $200 million in revenue for the government within the four-year period of the revitalization.