ProaNews

The latest news from Northern Marianas College

The CNMI Department of Public Works (DPW) and Northern Marianas College (NMC) would like to inform residents and commuters about the closure of the Fina Sisu Lane access point at Chalan Monsignor Guerrero, which is essential for improving the safety of the NMC campus community and residents in the As Terlaje-Fina Sisu neighborhood of Saipan. 

Starting on Monday, October 2, 2023, the access point adjacent to the CUC Water Tank on As Terlaje near the NMC Campus will be permanently  closed to all vehicular traffic as part of the road’s reconstruction in line with DPW’s overall infrastructure improvement plans for this area. 

This permanent closure is necessary to realign the road in order to ensure that it lies within the designated boundary line for the right of way. The closure is also necessary to  facilitate crucial maintenance and repair work of water lines and wastewater lines as  that will support overall infrastructure improvements for the area and for the ongoing and planned facility developments at Northern Marianas College. Presently, the existing Fina Sisu Lane runs through and encroaches on NMC property. The new Fina Sisu Lane will benefit residents in the long run by ensuring safe passage around NMC’s campus. 

During this period, local traffic and residents in the affected area will still have access to their homes, but it's important to note that access may be limited and subject to brief delays due to ongoing construction activities. 

DPW and NMC have been in close communication to minimize disruptions as much as possible. Contracted construction crews will make every effort to accommodate residents' needs during this time. Detour signs and personnel will be in place to assist drivers in navigating around the closure safely. We  ask all residents, businesses, and commuters to plan their routes accordingly, communicate their needs to on-site personnel, and allow for extra travel time during this period.

This project is part of DPW’s ongoing commitment to maintaining and improving community infrastructure and supports the needs and priorities of NMC to build a brand new, state-of-the-art campus for students and residents of the Commonwealth. 

DPW and NMC understand the inconvenience road closures can cause, especially for residents, and the department appreciates continual patience and cooperation as they work to enhance the Commonwealth’s infrastructure. 

DPW and NMC apologize for any inconvenience this temporary road closure may cause and thank the general public  in advance for its understanding and support as they strive to ensure a safer transportation system around the new NMC campus for NMC students and employees, as well as residents and visitors.