(MVA) — The Marianas Visitors Authority is proud to announce that full design plans have been completed and approved for major upgrades to three of Saipan’s most iconic destinations in Marpi — Bird Island Lookout, Suicide Cliff, and Last Command Post.
Backed by a $1.4 million grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration, the project marks a major milestone in MVA’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the visitor experience and restoring pride in the places that define The Marianas.
“These sites are part of our identity and are often the first places people think of when they picture The Marianas,” said MVA Managing Director Jamika R. Taijeron. “We’re excited to make long-overdue upgrades that will improve safety, accessibility, and overall experience for everyone, residents and visitors alike. It’s one of many steps we’re taking to elevate our destination.”
MVA is preparing to issue an Invitation to Bid in the coming weeks. The goal is to select a construction partner by July 2025, with project completion targeted for July 2026.
The upgrades will include:
• Bird Island Lookout. A complete site redesign with new ADA-compliant stairs, walkways, guardrails, scenic viewing platforms, and an improved parking area.
• Suicide Cliff. New walkways, platforms, and guardrails, plus ADA-compliant stairs and ramps, making this iconic site safer and more accessible.
• Last Command Post. Construction of a new ADA-accessible restroom facility, complete with septic system and leaching field.
“These investments raise the standard of our destination and help ensure that every visitor experience reflects the warmth, pride, and natural beauty we live every day,” Taijeron added.
The project is designed by TRL Architecture.
A&E design has been completed for new ADA/code compliant stairs, walkways, viewing platforms, guardrails, and an improved parking area at Bird Island Lookout on Saipan.
A&E design has been completed for safety, accessibility, and aesthetic improvements at Bird Island Lookout on Saipan.
A&E design has been completed for ADA/code compliant stairs, walkways, viewing platforms, a ramp, guardrails, and an improved parking area at Suicide Cliff on Saipan.
A&E design has been completed for a new restroom at Last Command Post on Saipan.
