The Port Authority of Guam Board of Directors has approved funding of up to $1 million for the construction of a Hagåtña Marina sea wall, aimed at assisting the Fishermen's Coop.
“The Fishermen's Co-op is a vital part of our community as it provides a mechanism where fishermen can sell their catch and make a living while feeding the people of Guam,” Governor Lou Leon Guerrero said. “I have always supported the vision of Manny Duenas, the Fishermen's Co-op, and initiatives that promote food sustainability. It’s a great day for our island’s fishermen to see the Port and Guam Economic Development Authority (GEDA) working together to see this project through.”
The funds will be given to GEDA which will act as the project manager. Under the 2012 Hotel Occupancy Bond, $3 million was set aside for the Fishermen's Co-op new building project.
To date, $900,000 has been expended for design work and the Board of the Fishermen's Co-op has been diligently working toward the final design for the new structure.
It is anticipated that the remaining $2.1 million will be used for the construction of the structure itself. However, in order for the new structure to be protected, there is a significant need for a sea wall to reinforce the shoreline. This comes at an estimated cost of $1 million.
Port Board Member Dot Harris said the sea wall is much needed for the Hagåtña Marina.
“This project to protect all the investments that have taken place and to continue to support our local seafaring community is good and it’s about time,” Harris said. “The government has not looked at this in decades.”