(MVA) — The Marianas Visitors Authority is taking the first steps toward the redevelopment of several major historic sites in Saipan with commencement of architecture and engineering services for the project.
Under a $1.4 million grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration, TRL Architecture will provide A&E design and construction oversite for the Marpi Tourist Site Improvement Project covering Bird Island Lookout, Last Command Post, and Suicide Cliff.
“After extensive meetings with EDA to ensure the CNMI is in compliance with all expectations of the grant, we’re pleased to announce the hiring of TRL Architecture to move us forward with design of the vision we have to enhance three of our most popular tourist sites in the Marianas,” said MVA Managing Director Christopher A. Concepcion. “We are working toward designing the site improvements and then hiring a construction contractor to do the work, which will elevate each of these sites.”
Improvements to Bird Island Lookout will include a complete site redesign that will include viewing platforms; new ADA/code compliant stairs, walkways, viewing platforms, and guardrails; and an improved parking area. Improvements to Suicide Cliff Lookout will also include new ADA/code compliant stairs, walkways, viewing platforms, a ramp, and guardrails and an improved parking area. Improvements to Last Command Post will include construction of a new ADA-compliance restrooms and accompanying septic tank and leaching field.
The A&E design phase is expected to be completed in six months with the construction phase beginning shortly thereafter. This multi-phase project is anticipated to be constructed and completed by March 2027.
