“The CNMI is making steady progress on infrastructure projects involving federal funds, and we are proud of this progress,” he said. “This project represents another successful example of the progress we are making.”
Ike Perez, Tinian International Airport manager and Commonwealth Port Authority acting executive director, said the project will make the airport operation “very efficient,” ensure better maneuverability of planes and allow near simultaneous use of the runways.
The development of airport facilities will ensure economic growth on Tinian, which hosts a casino industry, Perez told Variety.
Marianas Visitors Authority Managing Director Perry J.P. Tenorio said the project will allow for more direct international flights to Tinian.
Fitial, in an interview, said the parallel taxiway project is “significant” not only for Tinian but for the entire CNMI.
CPA will now implement the Instrument Landing System project for Tinian that will bring in direct flights from China and other parts of the world, the governor said.
“You can imagine the economic impact,” he added.
Perez said they will have the bidding for the ILS project in January.
Thales Inc., the firm that will prepare the project’s scope of work is expected to sign an agreement with CPA this month.
Fitial noted that GPPC Inc. successfully completed the parallel taxiway project on schedule and without excessive change orders or delays.
GPPC performed the $8,911,684.00 project with one change order for $103,104.80 which involved additional work required by the Federal Aviation Agency.
The project involves the strengthening of the old runway to the new Parallel Taxiway A, the reconstruction of existing Taxiway D, including grading and drainage work, the construction of a new emergency generator building with a generator, fuel tank, and other associated work, including the installation of signs and pavement markings.
The original design was prepared by JCT Engineers but was repackaged by EFC Engineers & Architects whic also performed the construction management services.
The notice to proceed was issued on July 2, 2007.
The project is mostly funded by the Federal Aviation Administration.
The project also includes a high speed taxiway, a fuel hydrant pit, a fuel farm facility and the completion of the new departure terminal.
But funding for these items are still pending.
