By Emmanuel T. Erediano
Variety News Staff

THE Department of Lands and Natural Resources yesterday said the solar-powered restroom along Beach Road is not yet hooked up to the sewer system.
DLNR Secretary Ignacio Dela Cruz said the restroom, which is the green structure located near the old Japanese tank at the intersection of Beach Road and Quartermaster, was constructed two years ago but the government has yet to apply for the $25,000 federal grant needed for hooking it up to the sewer system.
He said the CNMI’s first solar-powered outdoor restroom was supposed to have a water heater, but this was not included due to lack of funding.
According to Dela Cruz, the solar-powered facility is in line with the government’s energy conservation measures.
Dela Cruz said the connection to the sewer system is the only thing that has yet to be done before the public can finally use the restroom which was constructed for those who use Beach Road’s pathwalk for jogging and walking.
“There will be a lot of digging to be done because we have to find a way to connect the restroom’s plumbing system to the underground sewer system,” he said.
Although the government has yet to solicit bids, Dela Cruz said several contractors have already submitted proposals.