The Marianas Visitors Authority is moving forward with its Flower Islands Project, which aims to transform the islands into a flower-dotted destination.

With the guidance of internationally renowned landscape architect Junichi Inada, famed for helping create the Garden City of Singapore, the MVA held a series of meetings to share the vision of the project with the mayors of Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, Department of Lands and Natural Resources, Department of Public Lands, Commonwealth Ports Authority, Department of Public Works, Division of Parks & Grounds, Division of Forestry, and Micronesia Islands Natural Alliance.

During his visit, Inada also assessed current landscape in public areas and tourist sites on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota.

The Flower Islands Project aims to increase the competitiveness of the Marianas by rejuvenating our islands with trees and colorful flowers incorporated into our professional landscape architecture. At the same time, this new branding will create new business opportunities, said MVA managing director Christopher A. Concepcion. As the Flower Islands of the Pacific, we will create memorable experiences with visitors, engaging all five senses. We invite the entire Marianas community to become a part of this plan.

The Flower Islands Project master plan now under development will include long-and short-term phases providing workable guidelines on its implementation.

The plan will be shared with government agencies, private sector, schools and colleges to encourage everyones participation and contribution in achieving one common goal, said MVA Product Development manager Tatiana Babauta. In addition to boosting tourism, it will also develop natural habitats for trees and flowers, filter stormwater, and provide educational opportunities for plant propagation. And just imagine all the great photo opportunities!

Phase I of the plan will include a conceptual directional master plan for Saipan, Tinian, and Rota; a schematic plan for the Francisco C. Ada-Saipan International Airport, Tinian International Airport, Rota International Airport, and Banzai Cliff; a conceptual computer graphic montage for the Saipan airport, Tinian airport, Rota airport, and Airport Road toward Beach Road on Saipan; a topographical study model of Saipan, Tinian, Rota, and schematic image model of the Saipan airport; consultation on lighting posts beautification along the Beach Road pathway; consultation on horticultural nurseries on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota; consultation on acquisition of plants for Saipan, Tinian, and Rota; consultation on acquisition of horticultural equipment for Saipan, Tinian, and Rota; and consultation and coordination in regards to hanging flower baskets on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota. (Saipan Tribune)

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MVA kicks off Flower Islands project - Saipan Tribune