(Office of the CNMI Governor) — The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands on Thursday marked a transformative milestone with the ribbon‑cutting ceremony for the Garapan Revitalization Project, celebrating the successful completion of a comprehensive initiative to modernize infrastructure, improve public spaces, and strengthen Saipan’s historic commercial core.
The project — a centerpiece of community development and economic recovery efforts — received the majority of its funding through a grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration.
In 2022, the EDA awarded approximately $11.2 million to the Office of Planning and Development to support engineering, design, and construction of street improvements throughout the Garapan Core, with the goals of enhancing walkability, safety, accessibility, and economic vitality for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
Key objectives of the revitalization effort included:
• Repaving all core streets within Garapan with modern traffic‑friendly design and durable materials.
• Constructing revitalized curbs, gutters, sidewalks, and on‑street parking to support pedestrian‑oriented and business‑friendly activity.
• Installing updated streetlights and enhanced landscaping to improve safety and ambience throughout the district.
“This project represents a major investment in the future of Saipan and the CNMI,” said Gov. David M. Apatang. “Thanks to strategic grant support from the U.S. Economic Development Administration and close coordination with local partners, Garapan is now better equipped to support small business growth, tourism recovery, and community life for generations to come.”
The CNMI government and OPD emphasized that this partnership — including federal support and local leadership — was critical in delivering results on time and on budget, particularly in a key economic zone that anchors Saipan’s tourism and cultural identity.
