How will buildup affect Guam's roadways?
Posted: Feb 02, 2010 2:50 PM
Updated: Feb 02, 2010 6:32 PM
by Janjeera Hail
Guam - With Guam's roadways already struggling to keep up with a growing number of motorists, the military buildup promises to clog the streets even further. And while the Draft Environmental Impact Statement offers some solutions, they aren't all set in stone and may not make everyone happy.
One of the major concerns addressed in the DEIS is how the island's roadways will handle the large influx of drivers and increase in heavy equipments. One of the proposed solutions is to improve or create new military hull roads. According to Department of Public Works Director Larry Perez, a military hull road is any roadway used by the military to transport goods and personnel. For example, any road the military would use to connect the Port Authority to the various military installations.
One of the roadways being proposed would connect the Micronesia Mall intersection to NCTAMS by cutting across the land near Two Lovers Point. "That road is necessary to minimize the impact to the existing roadway of marine drive. If it's not built what you're going to see is a major congestion going north on marine drive past the mall up to Route 3," said Perez.
But this raises another concern - what about the land that the roadway is to be built on? Perez says his agency will do everything in their power to avoid condemnation and, even if it comes to that, it'll be up to the Legislature for final approval. "So therein lies an opportunity for the Legislature and the public hearing and the public at large to opine on whether the condemnation should proceed or not. And this could actually be a showstopper," he said.
But Perez adds that this project is a long way off. He says DPW is still identifying the dollars necessary for the survey, design, and construction of the project and doesn't anticipate the planning phase to be complete until 2011 or 2012. And even then, it's still a maybe, adding, "As is the case for the Fiscal Year 2010 Defense Authorization Act and any further roads of this DEIS, none of the construction will commence until there's a record of decision issued for this DEIS."
Showing posts with label Roads. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Roads. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Wednesday, February 03, 2010
PNC :: GEDA: Buildup Comes With Some Big Negatives
PNC :: GEDA: Buildup Comes With Some Big Negatives
Friday, 29 January 2010
Guam - GEDA Administrator Tony Blaz has submitted his top concerns over the impact of the military buildup to Senator Frank Aguon Jr.'s Committee on Economic Development.
In his letter to Aguon, Blaz lists the following impacts and concerns:
*GRT, corporate income taxes and personal income taxes could be as high as $423 in 2014 and then declining to $104 million in 2017.
*There may be a time lag between when GovGuam revenues are needed and when they are available for use.
*The buildup would generate more demands on Guam for roads, ports sewer, water, power and other infrastructure and will increase the pressure for substantial borrowing.
Read GEDA's list of concerns and impacts
*Members of the military do not spend a great deal of their income in the local economy, especially if they are housed on base and buy their groceries on base. Currently only 12% of the enlisted military income is spent on Guam.
*The average annual income of military personnel is just $29-thousand dollars. 11,182 active duty personnel translates into a total annual payroll of #323 million. Just 12% will be spent in the local economy.
*Housing for the military will be provided by the military, not the Guam private market. Local shippers and wholesaler will increase sales to the military bases but when imported goods are sold on base, most of the value of those sales won't be realized and profits won't be reinvested locally.
*There will be a "recession-like" period after 2014 when business will have to lay off workers after the peak buildup period.
*Guam workers will likely see the cot of living continue to rise faster than their incomes.
*The cost of living during the construction phase could negatively affect households on fixed incomes, although other households could benefit from rising wages.
*Hotels could benefit conssiderably, but the service sector could undergo a difficult period due to loss of labor to higher paying jobs and pressure or increased wages.
Written by : Kevin Kerrigan
Friday, 29 January 2010
Guam - GEDA Administrator Tony Blaz has submitted his top concerns over the impact of the military buildup to Senator Frank Aguon Jr.'s Committee on Economic Development.
In his letter to Aguon, Blaz lists the following impacts and concerns:
*GRT, corporate income taxes and personal income taxes could be as high as $423 in 2014 and then declining to $104 million in 2017.
*There may be a time lag between when GovGuam revenues are needed and when they are available for use.
*The buildup would generate more demands on Guam for roads, ports sewer, water, power and other infrastructure and will increase the pressure for substantial borrowing.
Read GEDA's list of concerns and impacts
*Members of the military do not spend a great deal of their income in the local economy, especially if they are housed on base and buy their groceries on base. Currently only 12% of the enlisted military income is spent on Guam.
*The average annual income of military personnel is just $29-thousand dollars. 11,182 active duty personnel translates into a total annual payroll of #323 million. Just 12% will be spent in the local economy.
*Housing for the military will be provided by the military, not the Guam private market. Local shippers and wholesaler will increase sales to the military bases but when imported goods are sold on base, most of the value of those sales won't be realized and profits won't be reinvested locally.
*There will be a "recession-like" period after 2014 when business will have to lay off workers after the peak buildup period.
*Guam workers will likely see the cot of living continue to rise faster than their incomes.
*The cost of living during the construction phase could negatively affect households on fixed incomes, although other households could benefit from rising wages.
*Hotels could benefit conssiderably, but the service sector could undergo a difficult period due to loss of labor to higher paying jobs and pressure or increased wages.
Written by : Kevin Kerrigan
PNC :: Sen B J Cruz with Ray Gibson
PNC :: Sen B J Cruz with Ray Gibson
Friday, 29 January 2010
Interview between Ray Gibson and Senator B J Cruz about his presentation to the Rotary Club on the Military Buildup Draft EIS. They also talked about the senator's legislation which suggested four options for filling a vacancy in the Guam Legislature. They then talked about new roadways the military may construct to alleviate traffic backlogs on Marine Corps Drive.
If the player does not work click here to download the entire podcast.
http://www.pacificnewscenter.com/images/stories/k57podcasts/jan10/100129_074056.mp3
Written by : Bob Gaeth
Friday, 29 January 2010
Interview between Ray Gibson and Senator B J Cruz about his presentation to the Rotary Club on the Military Buildup Draft EIS. They also talked about the senator's legislation which suggested four options for filling a vacancy in the Guam Legislature. They then talked about new roadways the military may construct to alleviate traffic backlogs on Marine Corps Drive.
If the player does not work click here to download the entire podcast.
http://www.pacificnewscenter.com/images/stories/k57podcasts/jan10/100129_074056.mp3
Written by : Bob Gaeth
Hidden costs of troop buildup questioned
Hidden costs of troop buildup questioned
Friday, 29 January 2010 00:45
by Zita Y. Taitano | Variety News Staff
THE weeklong legislative effort to provide the community an opportunity to further respond to the military’s draft environmental impact statement continued into the its fourth day yesterday with the deputy director at the Department of Public Works raising new questions.
Andy Leon Guerrero expressed, among other things, concerns over the impact of a student population increase projected at 6,000.
Leon Guerrero told lawmakers that would translate to a need for 53 new school buses. He worried on how the soaring costs were to be accommodated.
The acting director said new buses cost approximately $160,000 each, equating to nearly $8.5 million in order to accommodate the increase.
In addition to more salary and benefits for drivers to man the new buses, energy and maintenance were further points Leon Guerrero said needed to be more thoroughly addressed.
“Our fuel cost estimates will rise by certain amounts and we will need additional monies for parts and supplies,” he added.
Leon Guerrero also said new construction projects will challenge DPW to find enough staff to ensure compliance with local and federal codes.
Road surprise
Larry Perez, who will be stepping down as director of the agency next month, inadvertently raised the eyebrows of one lawmaker when reviewing a section of the military impact study concerning a possible new road in Upper Tumon.
Vice speaker BJ Cruz was caught by surprise upon learning of a proposed road that would connect the popular tourist locale Two Lovers’ Point with Route 3.
Cruz queried Perez on how the land would be required to construct such a road. Perez only responded by saying it is an issue they are working on.
Parkway
In response to queries by Sen. Tom Ada, Perez insisted on the need for building the Tiyan Parkway, connecting Route 8 and with Route 1. He said tDPWis working with Tiyan landowners and the Guam International Airport Authority.
“We’re attempting collaboratively with all the owners to establish a roadway but we want to represent that it is a vital roadway or connector road for the driving public and minimize congestion on route 8, route 16 and route 1,” he said.
Friday, 29 January 2010 00:45
by Zita Y. Taitano | Variety News Staff
THE weeklong legislative effort to provide the community an opportunity to further respond to the military’s draft environmental impact statement continued into the its fourth day yesterday with the deputy director at the Department of Public Works raising new questions.
Andy Leon Guerrero expressed, among other things, concerns over the impact of a student population increase projected at 6,000.
Leon Guerrero told lawmakers that would translate to a need for 53 new school buses. He worried on how the soaring costs were to be accommodated.
The acting director said new buses cost approximately $160,000 each, equating to nearly $8.5 million in order to accommodate the increase.
In addition to more salary and benefits for drivers to man the new buses, energy and maintenance were further points Leon Guerrero said needed to be more thoroughly addressed.
“Our fuel cost estimates will rise by certain amounts and we will need additional monies for parts and supplies,” he added.
Leon Guerrero also said new construction projects will challenge DPW to find enough staff to ensure compliance with local and federal codes.
Road surprise
Larry Perez, who will be stepping down as director of the agency next month, inadvertently raised the eyebrows of one lawmaker when reviewing a section of the military impact study concerning a possible new road in Upper Tumon.
Vice speaker BJ Cruz was caught by surprise upon learning of a proposed road that would connect the popular tourist locale Two Lovers’ Point with Route 3.
Cruz queried Perez on how the land would be required to construct such a road. Perez only responded by saying it is an issue they are working on.
Parkway
In response to queries by Sen. Tom Ada, Perez insisted on the need for building the Tiyan Parkway, connecting Route 8 and with Route 1. He said tDPWis working with Tiyan landowners and the Guam International Airport Authority.
“We’re attempting collaboratively with all the owners to establish a roadway but we want to represent that it is a vital roadway or connector road for the driving public and minimize congestion on route 8, route 16 and route 1,” he said.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
AAFB’s road expansion project begins
AAFB’s road expansion project begins
Monday, 25 January 2010 01:22
by Tiffany Sukola | Variety News Staff
Naval Facilities Engineering Command Marianas last week unveiled plans to improve several roads on Andersen Air Force Base, joining the growing list of agencies preparing for the upcoming military buildup.
“This project is meant to improve the safety, quality of life and operation readiness on base,” said NAVFAC assistant operations manager Commander Keith Barton during Friday’s groundbreaking ceremony.
According to Barton, the much-needed upgrades to several of Andersen’s roadways are necessary in order to support the upcoming population spike associated with the relocation of thousands of marines and their dependents to Guam.
The project involves widening Arc Light Boulevard, Andersen’s main thoroughfare, as well as several surrounding streets.
According to a NAVFAC press release, the project outlined in a 2009 congressional insert will include adding a median divider, bike lane and sidewalks to the current road. In addition, three roundabouts will be installed at various intersections on base.
The $5.6 million construction contract was awarded to Reliable Builders, Inc. last September.
According to Brigadier General Philip Rhulman, the realignment of Arc Light Blvd. is just one of many ongoing buildup related construction projects.
“This strategic buildup will last many years and we need to ensure efficient operations,” said Rhulman, noting that even as Andersen grows in size, base operational capability must also increase.
Rhulman also went on to explain that creating a new traffic flow was needed to decrease the number of traffic jams and accidents that already occur at Andersen.
Rhulman added that the number of cars traveling on base will dramatically increase with the arrival of the estimated 8,000 Marines and their families. And more cars, he said, meant more traffic.
Rhulman said that since studies show that roundabouts are safer, installing them around Andersen will make existing intersections less dangerous, especially during peak traffic hours.
Barton added that the construction should be completed by the end of this summer.
Monday, 25 January 2010 01:22
by Tiffany Sukola | Variety News Staff
Naval Facilities Engineering Command Marianas last week unveiled plans to improve several roads on Andersen Air Force Base, joining the growing list of agencies preparing for the upcoming military buildup.
“This project is meant to improve the safety, quality of life and operation readiness on base,” said NAVFAC assistant operations manager Commander Keith Barton during Friday’s groundbreaking ceremony.
According to Barton, the much-needed upgrades to several of Andersen’s roadways are necessary in order to support the upcoming population spike associated with the relocation of thousands of marines and their dependents to Guam.
The project involves widening Arc Light Boulevard, Andersen’s main thoroughfare, as well as several surrounding streets.
According to a NAVFAC press release, the project outlined in a 2009 congressional insert will include adding a median divider, bike lane and sidewalks to the current road. In addition, three roundabouts will be installed at various intersections on base.
The $5.6 million construction contract was awarded to Reliable Builders, Inc. last September.
According to Brigadier General Philip Rhulman, the realignment of Arc Light Blvd. is just one of many ongoing buildup related construction projects.
“This strategic buildup will last many years and we need to ensure efficient operations,” said Rhulman, noting that even as Andersen grows in size, base operational capability must also increase.
Rhulman also went on to explain that creating a new traffic flow was needed to decrease the number of traffic jams and accidents that already occur at Andersen.
Rhulman added that the number of cars traveling on base will dramatically increase with the arrival of the estimated 8,000 Marines and their families. And more cars, he said, meant more traffic.
Rhulman said that since studies show that roundabouts are safer, installing them around Andersen will make existing intersections less dangerous, especially during peak traffic hours.
Barton added that the construction should be completed by the end of this summer.
Firing range key to buildup: Raceway may not need to move
Firing range key to buildup: Raceway may not need to move
By Brett Kelman • Pacific Daily News • January 23, 2010
A plan to build a small-arms firing range on Guam's northeast coast has been one of the most commonly protested components of the coming military buildup, but it is also one of the most essential.
There is no buildup without a firing range, retired Marine Corps Col. John Jackson, director of the Joint Guam Program Office, said yesterday.
None of the existing ranges on Guam could be expanded to handle 8,500 Marines and the military's original plan to put a firing range on military property by Double Reef was shot down by the public, he said.
But Marines who transfer to Guam in the next few years will need a place to maintain their skill and certification with weapons, Jackson said. The Pagat area is the only suitable place left, according to the draft Environmental Impact Statement.
Regardless, some of the loudest voices against the buildup during the last two months have been opposed to the military's plans for this land.
Some of these conflicts -- including the relocation of the Guam International Raceway -- may be resolved, Jackson said. Others, such as concerns about access to Pagat Cave, are misunderstandings, he said.
Raceway
When racers arrived at the raceway last night, buildup protesters were waiting for them.
GovGuam has invested about $7.3 million in the Guam International Raceway since it was built on Chamorro Land Trust land in 2001, but the draft EIS states that the raceway must be relocated.
Joe Naputi Jr., who has been volunteering his time as track manager for about four years, said many volunteers have worked hard to detour illegal drag racing onto the legal track.
"We spent a lot of money already to build this racetrack and we don't know if we have enough money to go and build another one elsewhere," he said.
Even if the military offers to pay for a replacement track of equal value somewhere else, it won't be the same place volunteers have poured their lives into, Naputi said.
Although the military's original plan for the firing range does require the raceway to move, this might change, Jackson said.
He said the Department of Defense is looking for a way to reorganize the gunfire trajectories and safety zones in the firing range so the raceway can stay put without Marines endangering each other.
It is possible the range and the raceway will become neighbors, he said.
Last night, Naputi said this possibility was a step in the right direction, but he wonders if racers would be safe next door to a firing range.
He also said the Department of Defense's indecisiveness didn't inspire a lot of confidence, and asked if it was that easy to change the plan, what is to stop them from changing it back?
"Which one is it?" Naputi said. "They are changing things left and right and we want to know the real truth. It's kind of senseless to tell us you are going to move us out of the way and then later on (say) we are neighbors. That's two different stories."
Opportunity
If the firing range is an essential part of the buildup, then protesters must realize they are objecting to a lot of new jobs, tax dollars and opportunity. Guam can't have one without the other, Carl Peterson said yesterday.
Peterson is a member of the Guam Chamber of Commerce board of directors who has high hopes for the buildup. He said many of the "emotional" protests to the firing range aren't worth jeopardizing the economic boom of the buildup.
Guam needs this, he said.
"We are in debt up to our ears and this income is going to help us (pay off) that debt," he said.
Peterson said the simplest benefit from the buildup will be additional tax dollars, which will help improve the troubled state of Guam's schools, health care and roads.
If the buildup brings $15 billion in spending to the island, GovGuam will make $600,000 from the gross receipts tax alone, he said.
After that, the federal government will dump tax dollars from the mainland into Guam's civilian roadways and infrastructure. And if GovGuam and the military share the island's new landfill, trash service will cost less for everyone.
These are just some of the benefits the buildup could bring, he said.
If there were no buildup, Guam would have to rely on a fading tourism industry and the future will be dark, he said. Japan's aging population is traveling less and competition from cheaper destinations -- such as Singapore and Bangkok -- is strong.
"In the long term, without additional investment of capital from the buildup, it can only mean our standard of living goes down," Peterson said.
Conflicts
If the Guam International Raceway doesn't have to move, some of the civilians who object to the firing range will be satisfied.
But there are still more conflicts out there.
•Cultural activists, such as Joe Quinata of the Guam Preservation Trust, have taken steps to draw national attention to the plight of the Pagat area, where the remains of an ancient Chamorro village are buried;
•Landowners such as Gloria Nelson have said they want to keep their land and the military should not be confident it can be bought; and
•Hikers such as Dave Lotz have said the public deserves access to natural beauties such as Pagat Cave.
Yesterday, Jackson said anyone who wants access to Pagat Cave will be able to during the 13 weeks a year when the firing range is not in use, and that it might be open to the public some weekends too.
This is "not very well articulated" in the draft EIS, he said.
The document suggests Pagat Cave will be off limits all the time, but this was never the plan, Jackson said.
Limited access may actually help protect the cave and the cultural remains, he said.
"There won't be any of the destructive activity going on down there that takes place today. I don't know if you've been down there, but there is a lot of trash down there," Jackson said. "... We would have people that would go down there to make sure it is kept clean."
By Brett Kelman • Pacific Daily News • January 23, 2010
A plan to build a small-arms firing range on Guam's northeast coast has been one of the most commonly protested components of the coming military buildup, but it is also one of the most essential.
There is no buildup without a firing range, retired Marine Corps Col. John Jackson, director of the Joint Guam Program Office, said yesterday.
None of the existing ranges on Guam could be expanded to handle 8,500 Marines and the military's original plan to put a firing range on military property by Double Reef was shot down by the public, he said.
But Marines who transfer to Guam in the next few years will need a place to maintain their skill and certification with weapons, Jackson said. The Pagat area is the only suitable place left, according to the draft Environmental Impact Statement.
Regardless, some of the loudest voices against the buildup during the last two months have been opposed to the military's plans for this land.
Some of these conflicts -- including the relocation of the Guam International Raceway -- may be resolved, Jackson said. Others, such as concerns about access to Pagat Cave, are misunderstandings, he said.
Raceway
When racers arrived at the raceway last night, buildup protesters were waiting for them.
GovGuam has invested about $7.3 million in the Guam International Raceway since it was built on Chamorro Land Trust land in 2001, but the draft EIS states that the raceway must be relocated.
Joe Naputi Jr., who has been volunteering his time as track manager for about four years, said many volunteers have worked hard to detour illegal drag racing onto the legal track.
"We spent a lot of money already to build this racetrack and we don't know if we have enough money to go and build another one elsewhere," he said.
Even if the military offers to pay for a replacement track of equal value somewhere else, it won't be the same place volunteers have poured their lives into, Naputi said.
Although the military's original plan for the firing range does require the raceway to move, this might change, Jackson said.
He said the Department of Defense is looking for a way to reorganize the gunfire trajectories and safety zones in the firing range so the raceway can stay put without Marines endangering each other.
It is possible the range and the raceway will become neighbors, he said.
Last night, Naputi said this possibility was a step in the right direction, but he wonders if racers would be safe next door to a firing range.
He also said the Department of Defense's indecisiveness didn't inspire a lot of confidence, and asked if it was that easy to change the plan, what is to stop them from changing it back?
"Which one is it?" Naputi said. "They are changing things left and right and we want to know the real truth. It's kind of senseless to tell us you are going to move us out of the way and then later on (say) we are neighbors. That's two different stories."
Opportunity
If the firing range is an essential part of the buildup, then protesters must realize they are objecting to a lot of new jobs, tax dollars and opportunity. Guam can't have one without the other, Carl Peterson said yesterday.
Peterson is a member of the Guam Chamber of Commerce board of directors who has high hopes for the buildup. He said many of the "emotional" protests to the firing range aren't worth jeopardizing the economic boom of the buildup.
Guam needs this, he said.
"We are in debt up to our ears and this income is going to help us (pay off) that debt," he said.
Peterson said the simplest benefit from the buildup will be additional tax dollars, which will help improve the troubled state of Guam's schools, health care and roads.
If the buildup brings $15 billion in spending to the island, GovGuam will make $600,000 from the gross receipts tax alone, he said.
After that, the federal government will dump tax dollars from the mainland into Guam's civilian roadways and infrastructure. And if GovGuam and the military share the island's new landfill, trash service will cost less for everyone.
These are just some of the benefits the buildup could bring, he said.
If there were no buildup, Guam would have to rely on a fading tourism industry and the future will be dark, he said. Japan's aging population is traveling less and competition from cheaper destinations -- such as Singapore and Bangkok -- is strong.
"In the long term, without additional investment of capital from the buildup, it can only mean our standard of living goes down," Peterson said.
Conflicts
If the Guam International Raceway doesn't have to move, some of the civilians who object to the firing range will be satisfied.
But there are still more conflicts out there.
•Cultural activists, such as Joe Quinata of the Guam Preservation Trust, have taken steps to draw national attention to the plight of the Pagat area, where the remains of an ancient Chamorro village are buried;
•Landowners such as Gloria Nelson have said they want to keep their land and the military should not be confident it can be bought; and
•Hikers such as Dave Lotz have said the public deserves access to natural beauties such as Pagat Cave.
Yesterday, Jackson said anyone who wants access to Pagat Cave will be able to during the 13 weeks a year when the firing range is not in use, and that it might be open to the public some weekends too.
This is "not very well articulated" in the draft EIS, he said.
The document suggests Pagat Cave will be off limits all the time, but this was never the plan, Jackson said.
Limited access may actually help protect the cave and the cultural remains, he said.
"There won't be any of the destructive activity going on down there that takes place today. I don't know if you've been down there, but there is a lot of trash down there," Jackson said. "... We would have people that would go down there to make sure it is kept clean."
Road improvement launched at AAFB
Road improvement launched at AAFB
Posted: Jan 22, 2010 5:23 PM
by Heather Hauswirth
Guam - U.S. Naval Facilities Engineering Command Marianas held a groundbreaking ceremony for a multi-million dollar road improvement project on Andersen Air Force Base. The $5.6 million construction project was awarded to Reliable Builders, Inc. of Tamuning, with construction is slated to be completed by this summer.
Brigadier General Philip Rhulman says this is a vital step in ensuring the base's infrastructure can support its future growth. He said, "It has already begun it began years ago when you saw the Global Hawk Hangar, its begun now and it will continue to grow when the U.S. Marine Corps comes to this island, as well as specifically at Andersen Air Force Base.
"What's important about realigning this traffic route is - with the facilities sprouting up around the base is to make sure we have - safe and efficient operations on the base."
Posted: Jan 22, 2010 5:23 PM
by Heather Hauswirth
Guam - U.S. Naval Facilities Engineering Command Marianas held a groundbreaking ceremony for a multi-million dollar road improvement project on Andersen Air Force Base. The $5.6 million construction project was awarded to Reliable Builders, Inc. of Tamuning, with construction is slated to be completed by this summer.
Brigadier General Philip Rhulman says this is a vital step in ensuring the base's infrastructure can support its future growth. He said, "It has already begun it began years ago when you saw the Global Hawk Hangar, its begun now and it will continue to grow when the U.S. Marine Corps comes to this island, as well as specifically at Andersen Air Force Base.
"What's important about realigning this traffic route is - with the facilities sprouting up around the base is to make sure we have - safe and efficient operations on the base."
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Tiyan Access Road May Be Closed by FAA
Tiyan residents infuriated at FAA
Dec 20, 2009
by Mindy Aguon
Guam - Tiyan residents have launched a letter campaign outraged by the Federal Aviation Administration's efforts to completely shut down public access through Tiyan. The airport is currently collaborating with the Guam Department of Public Works, the Federal Highway Administration and the FAA to find a win-win solution.
Dozens of Tiyan landowners put pen to paper, expressing their frustration in letters to Guam International Airport Authority Executive Manager Carlos Salas. The landowners are particularly upset about the FAA's insistence that the public be denied access to the new road. The feds have threatened to cut off federal funds unless the access road is closed.
The FAA also warned that GIAA cannot use airport revenues or property for the Tiyan parkway that is supposed to be built and completed by April 2012. The Tiyan Neighborhood Association contends there is no practical reason or basis to prohibit the public from using the new road, saying it's apparent that the "FAA wants to take the airport back and restrict access to locals as though it was still military property."
The Airport's executive manager couldn't detail what plans are in the works for the stalled Tiyan parkway project, but he confirms officials are in discussions to resolve the matter and make it a win-win for everyone. Said Salas, "We want to help and make sure there's public access as well. Our latest collaboration with Public Works and Federal Highway is that the airport is favorably looking at maybe even providing more land to make that possible."
At this point DPW, the FHA, the FAA, and the airport are working on the road alignment and determine where the parkway would be situated. While the FAA previously indicated that GIAA could not use any of its property for the access road, Salas says the airport may end up giving twenty-four acres of land. "Not a change of heart, but look at the parameters that you have to work within," he continued.
"And the parameters are this, that the airport property is strictly for airport use and there are other properties that are available or could be attainable for purposes of the roadway. So let's work with that and see what the airport can do on a give and take situation."
Salas says while discussions are ongoing, he expects the Tiyan parkway will run along East Sunset Boulevard and eventually connect to Route 8 further from south of its current location. He's hopeful an agreement will be reached before the end of the year or by January.
Dec 20, 2009
by Mindy Aguon
Guam - Tiyan residents have launched a letter campaign outraged by the Federal Aviation Administration's efforts to completely shut down public access through Tiyan. The airport is currently collaborating with the Guam Department of Public Works, the Federal Highway Administration and the FAA to find a win-win solution.
Dozens of Tiyan landowners put pen to paper, expressing their frustration in letters to Guam International Airport Authority Executive Manager Carlos Salas. The landowners are particularly upset about the FAA's insistence that the public be denied access to the new road. The feds have threatened to cut off federal funds unless the access road is closed.
The FAA also warned that GIAA cannot use airport revenues or property for the Tiyan parkway that is supposed to be built and completed by April 2012. The Tiyan Neighborhood Association contends there is no practical reason or basis to prohibit the public from using the new road, saying it's apparent that the "FAA wants to take the airport back and restrict access to locals as though it was still military property."
The Airport's executive manager couldn't detail what plans are in the works for the stalled Tiyan parkway project, but he confirms officials are in discussions to resolve the matter and make it a win-win for everyone. Said Salas, "We want to help and make sure there's public access as well. Our latest collaboration with Public Works and Federal Highway is that the airport is favorably looking at maybe even providing more land to make that possible."
At this point DPW, the FHA, the FAA, and the airport are working on the road alignment and determine where the parkway would be situated. While the FAA previously indicated that GIAA could not use any of its property for the access road, Salas says the airport may end up giving twenty-four acres of land. "Not a change of heart, but look at the parameters that you have to work within," he continued.
"And the parameters are this, that the airport property is strictly for airport use and there are other properties that are available or could be attainable for purposes of the roadway. So let's work with that and see what the airport can do on a give and take situation."
Salas says while discussions are ongoing, he expects the Tiyan parkway will run along East Sunset Boulevard and eventually connect to Route 8 further from south of its current location. He's hopeful an agreement will be reached before the end of the year or by January.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Agencies outline concerns with EIS
Agencies outline concerns with EIS
By Bernice Santiago • Pacific Sunday News • December 13, 2009
The public can work with Government of Guam agencies to review the draft Environmental Impact statement for the military buildup, before the comment period ends on Feb. 17.
The comment period is critical, said Vangie Lujan, administrator for the Guam Coastal Management Program, under the Bureau of Statistics and Plans. When residents submit written comments about their concerns, the Department of Defense is required by law to address them, she said.
Residents are welcome to visit the Guam Coastal Management Program office, on the third floor of the GCIC building, where a print version of the draft EIS is available to the public. GCMP staff can further explain the document itself, and help residents review the key issues that they're concerned with, whether it's road construction or the impact to the coral reefs, Lujan said.
Different local agencies introduced their roles and areas of jurisdiction in reviewing the draft EIS yesterday, during a Natural Resources Expo held at the Guam Premier Outlets. The expo was held by the Natural Resources Subcommittee of the Governor's Civilian Military Task Force, according to a release from the Bureau of Statistics and Plans.
Dave Burdick, biologist from the Guam Coastal Management Program office, discussed the proposed Nuclear Aircraft Carrier deep-draft wharf and turning basin project. The project will affect coral reef in Apra Harbor, and the agency will be looking into both the direct and indirect impacts of the proposed dredging activities.
The office also will review the impact of population growth on Guam's natural resources, Burdick said. The island's population will grow by 79,000 people in 2015, before that number decreases to 33,600 people by 2020. An increase in harvesting and recreational use of natural resources likely will occur, Burdick said.
The office also will study the mitigation efforts proposed by the Department of Defense to replace lost ecosystem function, which is required under the federal Clean Water Act.
Biologist Jeffrey Quitugua said the Department of Agriculture's Division of Aquatics and Wildlife Resources will be looking into land habitat issues for species that DAWR hope to recover or bring back to Guam, such as the kingfisher, the Guam rail, and the Marianas fruit bat, as part of their review of the draft EIS.
The Guam Environmental Protection Agency is reviewing the draft EIS while regulating growing activity from the private sector, as the private sector prepares for the buildup, said Jesse Cruz, environmental monitoring and analytical services administrator. Cruz's section will be reviewing the dredging deep-draft wharf, the terrestrial clearing for construction projects, and other natural resource issues, he said yesterday.
Lujan said another expo will be held in January, where agencies will present a more detailed analysis of the draft EIS to the public, along with their recommendations.
The aim of such outreach events is to develop a dialogue with the public, so that the concerns and comments of local government planners, scientists, and the general public inform each other, Burdick said.
By Bernice Santiago • Pacific Sunday News • December 13, 2009
The public can work with Government of Guam agencies to review the draft Environmental Impact statement for the military buildup, before the comment period ends on Feb. 17.
The comment period is critical, said Vangie Lujan, administrator for the Guam Coastal Management Program, under the Bureau of Statistics and Plans. When residents submit written comments about their concerns, the Department of Defense is required by law to address them, she said.
Residents are welcome to visit the Guam Coastal Management Program office, on the third floor of the GCIC building, where a print version of the draft EIS is available to the public. GCMP staff can further explain the document itself, and help residents review the key issues that they're concerned with, whether it's road construction or the impact to the coral reefs, Lujan said.
Different local agencies introduced their roles and areas of jurisdiction in reviewing the draft EIS yesterday, during a Natural Resources Expo held at the Guam Premier Outlets. The expo was held by the Natural Resources Subcommittee of the Governor's Civilian Military Task Force, according to a release from the Bureau of Statistics and Plans.
Dave Burdick, biologist from the Guam Coastal Management Program office, discussed the proposed Nuclear Aircraft Carrier deep-draft wharf and turning basin project. The project will affect coral reef in Apra Harbor, and the agency will be looking into both the direct and indirect impacts of the proposed dredging activities.
The office also will review the impact of population growth on Guam's natural resources, Burdick said. The island's population will grow by 79,000 people in 2015, before that number decreases to 33,600 people by 2020. An increase in harvesting and recreational use of natural resources likely will occur, Burdick said.
The office also will study the mitigation efforts proposed by the Department of Defense to replace lost ecosystem function, which is required under the federal Clean Water Act.
Biologist Jeffrey Quitugua said the Department of Agriculture's Division of Aquatics and Wildlife Resources will be looking into land habitat issues for species that DAWR hope to recover or bring back to Guam, such as the kingfisher, the Guam rail, and the Marianas fruit bat, as part of their review of the draft EIS.
The Guam Environmental Protection Agency is reviewing the draft EIS while regulating growing activity from the private sector, as the private sector prepares for the buildup, said Jesse Cruz, environmental monitoring and analytical services administrator. Cruz's section will be reviewing the dredging deep-draft wharf, the terrestrial clearing for construction projects, and other natural resource issues, he said yesterday.
Lujan said another expo will be held in January, where agencies will present a more detailed analysis of the draft EIS to the public, along with their recommendations.
The aim of such outreach events is to develop a dialogue with the public, so that the concerns and comments of local government planners, scientists, and the general public inform each other, Burdick said.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Military to increase road capacity
Military to increase road capacity
By Brett Kelman • Pacific Daily News • November 21, 2009
Main roads in Yigo and Dededo will be widened and strengthened in the next few years, or the population boom caused by the coming military buildup would create traffic congestion that would clog the northern half of Guam.
According to the Draft Environmental Impact Statement released yesterday, the military expects to increase the capacity of many roads so more motorists and heavy military vehicles can maneuver with ease. For example:
•Route 3, which splits from Marine Corps Drive in Dededo and stretches to the northwest corner of the island, must be widened from two to four lanes;
•Route 9, which snakes from the Ritidian area to Andersen Air Force Base, must be widened from two to four lanes; and
•Parts of Route 16, which narrows from the airport overpass to Barrigada and provides an alternative route from north to south, must be widened from four to six lanes.
These are just some of the 49 off-base roadway improvements proposed in the preferred solution to traffic congestion provided in the draft EIS.
The projects include eight roads that must be widened, five bridges that must be replaced, one brand-new road and road strengthening all over the island -- including Marine Corps Drive.
According to projected traffic maps provided in the draft EIS, the improvements could prevent Guam from being paralyzed by traffic congestion.
If nothing is done before 2014, roads in Dededo and Yigo will be flooded with more cars than they were built for day and night. Thoroughfares like Y-Sengsong Road would have nearly as many cars on it as it should, the draft EIS predicts.
But if improvements are made, main roads will be able to handle traffic so motorists won't be forced onto smaller roads to escape congestion.
Paying for it
Although civilians will benefit from outside-the-gate improvements to most roadways, the federal government will pay for much of the projects, according to draft EIS executive summary.
Projects may be funded by the Federal Highway Administration and the Defense Access Road Program, the document states.
"The Defense Access Road Program provides the means for DOD to pay a fair share for public highway improvements required as a result of a sudden or unusual defense-generated traffic impact or unique defense-related public highway requirement," the document states.
By Brett Kelman • Pacific Daily News • November 21, 2009
Main roads in Yigo and Dededo will be widened and strengthened in the next few years, or the population boom caused by the coming military buildup would create traffic congestion that would clog the northern half of Guam.
According to the Draft Environmental Impact Statement released yesterday, the military expects to increase the capacity of many roads so more motorists and heavy military vehicles can maneuver with ease. For example:
•Route 3, which splits from Marine Corps Drive in Dededo and stretches to the northwest corner of the island, must be widened from two to four lanes;
•Route 9, which snakes from the Ritidian area to Andersen Air Force Base, must be widened from two to four lanes; and
•Parts of Route 16, which narrows from the airport overpass to Barrigada and provides an alternative route from north to south, must be widened from four to six lanes.
These are just some of the 49 off-base roadway improvements proposed in the preferred solution to traffic congestion provided in the draft EIS.
The projects include eight roads that must be widened, five bridges that must be replaced, one brand-new road and road strengthening all over the island -- including Marine Corps Drive.
According to projected traffic maps provided in the draft EIS, the improvements could prevent Guam from being paralyzed by traffic congestion.
If nothing is done before 2014, roads in Dededo and Yigo will be flooded with more cars than they were built for day and night. Thoroughfares like Y-Sengsong Road would have nearly as many cars on it as it should, the draft EIS predicts.
But if improvements are made, main roads will be able to handle traffic so motorists won't be forced onto smaller roads to escape congestion.
Paying for it
Although civilians will benefit from outside-the-gate improvements to most roadways, the federal government will pay for much of the projects, according to draft EIS executive summary.
Projects may be funded by the Federal Highway Administration and the Defense Access Road Program, the document states.
"The Defense Access Road Program provides the means for DOD to pay a fair share for public highway improvements required as a result of a sudden or unusual defense-generated traffic impact or unique defense-related public highway requirement," the document states.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Guam: One of America's Natural Resources
Rahall vows to support Guam’s needs
Friday, 14 August 2009 03:43 by Jude Lizama
Marianas Variety News Staff
ON THE final day of an official congressional delegation trip to the region that included Palau, the CNMI and Guam, U.S. congressman Nick Rahall declared “Certainly, Guam is one of our natural resources.”
As the chairman of the Committee on Natural Resources, Rahall also spoke about the important work currently underway to protect the natural environments of both the nation and its territories.
“We’re working to authorize a coastal management program to give the coastal states and the territories federal support and the tools from which they can plan for responsible and sustainable development, and to the protect the integrity of our coastlines and our beaches,” he said, adding that “all of Guam” is designated as a coastal zone.
Rahall’s comment came during presentations the congressional power-player delivered at the University of Guam in Mangilao and to Guam Chamber of Commerce members at the Hyatt Regency Guam in Tumon earlier this week.
Rahall, who is also the vice chairman for the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, said he recognizes the critical nature of modernizing all modes of transportation on Guam to support the buildup and growth in the civilian community.
“We want to ensure to the greatest extent that improvements, facilities and infrastructure are realized beyond the gates of the military installations,” he said.
The congressman cited that U.S. House of Representatives have been diligently working on legislation for fiscal year 2010 that would allocate nearly $50 million for the island under the Defense Access Roads Program. Rahall added that monies given to the island under the program is a “healthy down payment and a good start.”
Rahall added that the “essential ingredients” of local and national leadership and cooperation are in place not only for a successful buildup, but also towards educating the island community on the various options in choosing a preferential political status.
Friday, 14 August 2009 03:43 by Jude Lizama
Marianas Variety News Staff
ON THE final day of an official congressional delegation trip to the region that included Palau, the CNMI and Guam, U.S. congressman Nick Rahall declared “Certainly, Guam is one of our natural resources.”
As the chairman of the Committee on Natural Resources, Rahall also spoke about the important work currently underway to protect the natural environments of both the nation and its territories.
“We’re working to authorize a coastal management program to give the coastal states and the territories federal support and the tools from which they can plan for responsible and sustainable development, and to the protect the integrity of our coastlines and our beaches,” he said, adding that “all of Guam” is designated as a coastal zone.
Rahall’s comment came during presentations the congressional power-player delivered at the University of Guam in Mangilao and to Guam Chamber of Commerce members at the Hyatt Regency Guam in Tumon earlier this week.
Rahall, who is also the vice chairman for the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, said he recognizes the critical nature of modernizing all modes of transportation on Guam to support the buildup and growth in the civilian community.
“We want to ensure to the greatest extent that improvements, facilities and infrastructure are realized beyond the gates of the military installations,” he said.
The congressman cited that U.S. House of Representatives have been diligently working on legislation for fiscal year 2010 that would allocate nearly $50 million for the island under the Defense Access Roads Program. Rahall added that monies given to the island under the program is a “healthy down payment and a good start.”
Rahall added that the “essential ingredients” of local and national leadership and cooperation are in place not only for a successful buildup, but also towards educating the island community on the various options in choosing a preferential political status.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Guam's Haul Roads
Feds on island discussing haul roads
by Clynt Ridgell, KUAM News
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
A delegation of federal officials are on island working on the massive plan to overhaul Guam's roads in preparation for the military buildup. The amount of money it's going to take to get Guam's transportation infrastructure on the road to recovery is taking some very drastic twists and turns.
DPW Director Larry Perez says that his agency continues to meet weekly with federal officials about beefing up the haul road system in preparation for Guam's military buildup. This week key federal officials from organizations like the Joint Guam Program Office, Naval Facilities, Defense Access Roads, and the Federal Highway Administration are on Guam meeting with DPW engineers and their consultants from Parsons Brinkerhoff to discuss the improvement to Guam's roads, better known as haul roads, that are needed to handle the military buildup.
DPW director Larry Perez said the feds are out here to basically see if they agree with Guam's estimates. Originally the Governor's Office pegged these costs at $945 million then estimates were increased several times until they reached an estimate of roughly $4.5 billion, a figure produced with help from Parsons Brinckerhoff, Parsons Transportation Group, the Federal Highway Administration, the University of Phoenix, Arizona, central federal lands and others. Today Perez says that $4.5 billion figure has been cut in half.
"A lot of assumptions were clarified with these key officials and now we have a tally of roughly just under $2 billion that we're working on," Perez said. He says this drastic decrease is due to the fact that they now have a better understanding of the specifics of the haul roads projects after having met with more federal officials. This, despite the fact, that back in May, Perez returned from a trip to Washington DC with this to say.
"Bottom line at the end of the day it was not disputed the $4.5 billion is a requirement that was done by experts in the field," he stated. As KUAM has reported DoD was originally planning on building a brand new defense access road to run from the Naval base in the southern end of the island to Andersen Air Force Base in the northern end of the island at a cost of about $1 billion.
This idea was then changed to instead beef up existing roads because a brand new one would take too long to construct due to the environmental impact studies required by federal law.
Now the plan is to beef up an existing road that connects the Port Authority to NCTAMs which is currently the preferred but not necessarily the only potential site for basing the 8,000 Marines from Okinawa who will be transferred to Guam. The projected route to transfer constructions materials and other supplies will run from the Port Authority Road onto Rt. 1 or Marine Corps Drive then from Marine Corps Drive on to Rt. 8 or the road that passes through Mongmong Toto Maite alongside Tiyan past the tri-intersection in Barrigada to Rt. 16 or the road that passes by the Barrigada Post Office and down the overpass where it connects back to Marine Corps Drive and then on to NCTAMs road.
This was to be completed through a sort of step by step process in which federal funding would be given year by year beginning with $50 million for 2010. That figure too has changed. Perez said, "Right now they've identified something to the tune of $41 million that they can give up front they've given us half a million already for some NEPA studies."
With the figures constantly changing and no decision yet on what federal entity or combination of entities will fund the haul road buildup the only thing clear is that the feds will pay something.
"Bottom line, it's a federal statement the federal government is going to pay for these things and the local funds that we have will be earmarked for other areas that have been neglected for decades past," he said.
Once done with inspections they will submit their figures for a projected operations administration and maintenance budget for the years 2010 through 2014.
by Clynt Ridgell, KUAM News
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
A delegation of federal officials are on island working on the massive plan to overhaul Guam's roads in preparation for the military buildup. The amount of money it's going to take to get Guam's transportation infrastructure on the road to recovery is taking some very drastic twists and turns.
DPW Director Larry Perez says that his agency continues to meet weekly with federal officials about beefing up the haul road system in preparation for Guam's military buildup. This week key federal officials from organizations like the Joint Guam Program Office, Naval Facilities, Defense Access Roads, and the Federal Highway Administration are on Guam meeting with DPW engineers and their consultants from Parsons Brinkerhoff to discuss the improvement to Guam's roads, better known as haul roads, that are needed to handle the military buildup.
DPW director Larry Perez said the feds are out here to basically see if they agree with Guam's estimates. Originally the Governor's Office pegged these costs at $945 million then estimates were increased several times until they reached an estimate of roughly $4.5 billion, a figure produced with help from Parsons Brinckerhoff, Parsons Transportation Group, the Federal Highway Administration, the University of Phoenix, Arizona, central federal lands and others. Today Perez says that $4.5 billion figure has been cut in half.
"A lot of assumptions were clarified with these key officials and now we have a tally of roughly just under $2 billion that we're working on," Perez said. He says this drastic decrease is due to the fact that they now have a better understanding of the specifics of the haul roads projects after having met with more federal officials. This, despite the fact, that back in May, Perez returned from a trip to Washington DC with this to say.
"Bottom line at the end of the day it was not disputed the $4.5 billion is a requirement that was done by experts in the field," he stated. As KUAM has reported DoD was originally planning on building a brand new defense access road to run from the Naval base in the southern end of the island to Andersen Air Force Base in the northern end of the island at a cost of about $1 billion.
This idea was then changed to instead beef up existing roads because a brand new one would take too long to construct due to the environmental impact studies required by federal law.
Now the plan is to beef up an existing road that connects the Port Authority to NCTAMs which is currently the preferred but not necessarily the only potential site for basing the 8,000 Marines from Okinawa who will be transferred to Guam. The projected route to transfer constructions materials and other supplies will run from the Port Authority Road onto Rt. 1 or Marine Corps Drive then from Marine Corps Drive on to Rt. 8 or the road that passes through Mongmong Toto Maite alongside Tiyan past the tri-intersection in Barrigada to Rt. 16 or the road that passes by the Barrigada Post Office and down the overpass where it connects back to Marine Corps Drive and then on to NCTAMs road.
This was to be completed through a sort of step by step process in which federal funding would be given year by year beginning with $50 million for 2010. That figure too has changed. Perez said, "Right now they've identified something to the tune of $41 million that they can give up front they've given us half a million already for some NEPA studies."
With the figures constantly changing and no decision yet on what federal entity or combination of entities will fund the haul road buildup the only thing clear is that the feds will pay something.
"Bottom line, it's a federal statement the federal government is going to pay for these things and the local funds that we have will be earmarked for other areas that have been neglected for decades past," he said.
Once done with inspections they will submit their figures for a projected operations administration and maintenance budget for the years 2010 through 2014.
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
Military Urged to Help Upgrade Guam's Roads
Military urged to help upgrade Guam roads
Tuesday April 1, 2008
By Therese Hart
Variety News Staff
THE proposed 85-mile islandwide haul road network that the Department of Public Works presented to the Guam Legislature during its roundtable discussion of the military buildup yesterday will be part of the estimated $2 billion that would be needed to upgrade Guam's infrastructure.
But DPW Director Larry Perez assured senators that retired general David Bice, executive director of the Joint Guam Program Office, made a policy statement 10 months ago that Guam roadways and the Port Authority of Guam were major priorities in the military buildup and that the military will thus assist in some of the financing.
The $2 billion cost also includes upgrades and improvement of existing projects and new projects that are military-related, including projects by the Guam Power Authority, Guam Waterworks Authority, and DPW.
Haul roads are a system of roads that are well designed and constructed in a way that will make heavy traffic operation safer, more productive and cause less wear and tear on equipment.
Perez said that the military gave DPW the authority to come up with the transportation network and the cost analysis. Perez said the timelines are in place for the military to include the numbers in its budget.
Perez said that DPW submitted to Bice the project's total cost and he's hoping that the military will bear 95 percent or more of the cost.
Perez said that DPW proposes that the military pay the construction and excavation costs of the work. The bulk of the funding will come from the Department of Defense and other federal agencies, but Guam will also have to contribute to the cost.
* No commitment *
Senators, however, expressed their concern that the military has yet to give a definitive commitment to partially fund the highway project.
DPW's Transportation Plan 2030 also includes plans to revamp the ailing Guam mass transit system by reviewing population impacts, mobility challenges and haul road improvements and congestion. Some of the recommendations include creating a core fixed route system, a bus rapid transit system, and funding to build the bus fleet.
The projection to purchase 50 new vehicles will cost $25 million dollars. It will take 18-24 months to acquire new vehicles. In addition, the type of fuel, fuel costs and consumption still need more research.
DPW is recommending that the government consider the Federal Transit Administration Very Small Starts Program, which is a program designed to promote investments in bus stops for low floor vehicles, traffic signal schemes, and pedestrian improvements associated with transit.
FTA administers federal funding to support a variety of locally planned, constructed, and operated public transportation systems throughout the U.S., including buses, subways, light rail, commuter rail, streetcars, monorail, passenger ferry boats, inclined railways, and people movers.
DPW is also requesting for $5 million from the FTA Bus and Bus Facilities program for a new maintenance facility and is hoping to work with FTA to form a public private partnership through joint development regulation.
Tuesday April 1, 2008
By Therese Hart
Variety News Staff
THE proposed 85-mile islandwide haul road network that the Department of Public Works presented to the Guam Legislature during its roundtable discussion of the military buildup yesterday will be part of the estimated $2 billion that would be needed to upgrade Guam's infrastructure.
But DPW Director Larry Perez assured senators that retired general David Bice, executive director of the Joint Guam Program Office, made a policy statement 10 months ago that Guam roadways and the Port Authority of Guam were major priorities in the military buildup and that the military will thus assist in some of the financing.
The $2 billion cost also includes upgrades and improvement of existing projects and new projects that are military-related, including projects by the Guam Power Authority, Guam Waterworks Authority, and DPW.
Haul roads are a system of roads that are well designed and constructed in a way that will make heavy traffic operation safer, more productive and cause less wear and tear on equipment.
Perez said that the military gave DPW the authority to come up with the transportation network and the cost analysis. Perez said the timelines are in place for the military to include the numbers in its budget.
Perez said that DPW submitted to Bice the project's total cost and he's hoping that the military will bear 95 percent or more of the cost.
Perez said that DPW proposes that the military pay the construction and excavation costs of the work. The bulk of the funding will come from the Department of Defense and other federal agencies, but Guam will also have to contribute to the cost.
* No commitment *
Senators, however, expressed their concern that the military has yet to give a definitive commitment to partially fund the highway project.
DPW's Transportation Plan 2030 also includes plans to revamp the ailing Guam mass transit system by reviewing population impacts, mobility challenges and haul road improvements and congestion. Some of the recommendations include creating a core fixed route system, a bus rapid transit system, and funding to build the bus fleet.
The projection to purchase 50 new vehicles will cost $25 million dollars. It will take 18-24 months to acquire new vehicles. In addition, the type of fuel, fuel costs and consumption still need more research.
DPW is recommending that the government consider the Federal Transit Administration Very Small Starts Program, which is a program designed to promote investments in bus stops for low floor vehicles, traffic signal schemes, and pedestrian improvements associated with transit.
FTA administers federal funding to support a variety of locally planned, constructed, and operated public transportation systems throughout the U.S., including buses, subways, light rail, commuter rail, streetcars, monorail, passenger ferry boats, inclined railways, and people movers.
DPW is also requesting for $5 million from the FTA Bus and Bus Facilities program for a new maintenance facility and is hoping to work with FTA to form a public private partnership through joint development regulation.
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