“This [business incubator] is a welcome development,” he added.
Commerce Secretary Michael A. Ada informed the Zoning Office about its proposal to “retrofit” Pacific Gardenia Hotel into a business incubator, consistent with Saipan zoning law of 2008.
The Commonwealth Development Authority teamed up with Commerce for the proposal.
CDA allowed Commerce in 2008 to use the hotel’s facility “in helping businesspersons and future entrepreneurs” on island.
“This letter is to request your office to begin conducting an initial review of the proposed project location and scope of work,” Ada wrote Barrett.
Ada said the retrofitting will involve the overall renovation of the existing building, rewiring of electrical lines, re-plumbing, parking space upgrade, landscaping, excavation for elevator and general installation.
The proposed business incubator will house, among other offices, the Small Business Development Center which provides resources and services to business owners and individuals considering starting up a new business, Ada said.
Once operational, Ada said the former hotel will provide office space to entrepreneurs.
“Since these services have not been available to CNMI residents in about ten years, we are anxious to resume the services provided by the Business Incubator and Small Business Development Center,” Ada said.
The Zoning Board has proposed a $1.6 million plan to redevelop and transform Beach Road as Saipan’s “gold coast” and “economic engine.”
The redevelopment project covers 6.5 miles — from American Memorial Park in Garapan to the Pacific Islands Club in San Antonio.
