The Department of the Interior's Office of Insular Affairs awarded $350,000 to the Government of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands under the Economic, Social, and Political Development of the Territories program (CFDA 15.875) on October 1, 2025, for comprehensive renovation and enhancement of the Marpi Public Cemetery. The project, scheduled for completion by September 30, 2030, addresses critical infrastructure improvements to preserve the cemetery's role as the Commonwealth's primary public burial ground while ensuring safe, dignified, and accessible facilities for families and visitors. The award supports construction of perimeter security infrastructure, including a 6-foot aluminum fence with ten vehicle and pedestrian gates; accessibility upgrades comprising American Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant parking, walkways, ramps, and seating areas; and rehabilitation of existing facilities including the chapel, restrooms, and septic system servicing.
The project delivers substantial beautification and visitor convenience improvements through landscaping with native trees and vegetation, installation of concrete benches, and wayfinding signage to enhance the cemetery's welcoming environment. These improvements directly support infrastructure maintenance and capital improvement priorities within the Office of Insular Affairs' territorial development program, addressing aging infrastructure and delayed site development resulting from previous court-ordered restrictions that have now been lifted.