Commonwealth of Northern Marianas Islands

In recent years, the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands has experienced strong economic growth from a recovering tourism industry and growing marine-based industries.  Centrally located near the primary seaport and on-island transportation assets, Lower Base Industrial Park on the island of Saipan is an excellent location for marine-based industries.  Despite being ideally positioned to take advantage of the Islands’ growing economic opportunities, the Park still relied on a World War II-era septic system which severely limited its capacity.  Without a modern sewer system, the Park was unable to attract new industry to the region. 

In 2014, EDA invested $1.6 million in Public Works funds to support critical upgrades to the Lower Base Industrial Park, converting the traditional septic system to a modern sewer system. This project allows for additional businesses to locate in the park while protecting vital ground water resources.  The Commonwealth expects that the project will lead to the creation of 191 jobs.