By Emmanuel T. Erediano
Variety News Staff

THE Department of Public Works says it no longer employs nonresidents in line with the administration’s goal of providing employment for competent local workers.
Some key positions that were occupied before by nonresident engineers are now filled by local engineers, according to DPW Secretary Jose S. Demapan.
DPW started hiring local engineers late last year after the Legislature refused to pass a measure to allow the department to continue hiring nonresident workers who were paid salaries that ranged from $35,000 to $45,000 a year plus housing, transportation and repatriation allowances.
After completing the 45-day extension given them, the four nonresident personnel — two civil engineers, one electrical and one structural engineer – now work with private firms.
DPW has since hired four local civil engineers.
Demapan said in an interview that even the janitor is a resident worker.
He added that his department still needs more engineers, who will work on the ongoing highway projects on Saipan and Tinian where DPW is preparing for the one of its biggest projects — Route 202.
He said this federally funded highway project is approximately 4,000 linear feet long and will connect the Tinian seaport and airport.
The design is almost complete and construction is expected to start by the second week of June, Demapan said.
Route 202 will be the first main highway to be improved on Tinian. Route 201 will also be constructed soon, as its design is almost completed, Demapan said.