August 5, 2007 - About 60% of the renovation work to the Lt. Governor’s residence is completed and with enough money and the timely arrival of building materials and supplies, the structure should be ready for occupancy by the holiday season.
The Maintenance and Operations (M&O) crew of the Department of Public Works, who restored the Governor’s Mansion at Mauga-o-Ali’i, are carrying out the job.
DPW director Taeaotui Punaofo Tilei said yesterday that the entire interior framing is completed, for both the first and second levels. This includes the floors, walls, and ceiling.
Other upgrades include the installation of stainless steel gutters which are attached to the home to control the flow of water during heavy rains.
Those who pass by the site will notice that the house has been boarded up. Taeaotui said that this is because they are currently working on fixing up the exterior walls and other details on the outer part of the building.
“We are aiming at having the home ready for move-in by Christmas but it all depends on available funding and a steady flow of materials and supplies coming from off island,” Taeaotui explained.
The renovation work is costly, as the wood being used is treated, meaning that the usual termite infestation problem will no longer be an issue.
Earlier this year, Taeaotui said that about 75% of the first floor was damaged due to termite infestation.
Therefore, the floor choice was changed and a new sub-floor was laid.
Taeaotui explained that the Lt. Governor’s home usually goes through renovation work every few years because of termite problems. But with the new, more expensive treated wood, the DPW director says he doesn’t expect any major renovations for another 20 years.
The treated wood is the same one that was used in the recent restoration of the Governor’s Mansion.
The last time the Lt. Governor’s home was renovated was in the late 90s, when the territory hosted the South Pacific Mini Games.
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