Lt. Governor Tenorio, DPR, and GPD Engage in Safety Discussions with Park Patrons

Hagåtña, Guam – Lt. Governor Josh Tenorio, on behalf of Governor Lou Leon Guerrero, announces that effective immediately, the East Parking Lot of the Paseo de Susana in Hagåtña will remain open to the general public, lifting the recent restrictions imposed by the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR). On Friday, Lt. Governor Tenorio met with more than 20 automotive groups that regularly utilize the Paseo parking lot for an open discussion on how to ensure this parking lot is safe for all patrons. Guam Police Department (GPD) Chief Stephen Ignacio and DPR Director Roque Alcantara were also in attendance and supportive of Lt. Governor Tenorio’s directive to immediately reopen this parking lot with very specific guidelines to keep it safe and drug and alcohol-free.

During this meeting, the car enthusiasts advocated that our island’s automotive culture continues to thrive through an active “street scene” that is essentially a public gathering for all automotive hobbyists, and they all made it clear that they do not condone any kind of mischief. These advocates shared concerns about a recent public safety incident and agreed to improve communications with DPR and GPD. Lt. Governor Tenorio directed GPD to assist DPR’s park rangers with increased police visibility and requested car enthusiasts to formally organize these events by registering with DPR for scheduled events, designate a rapid response leader in coordination with authorities, and respect routine patrols conducted by law enforcement officers.

“Josh and I believe that our community is made stronger when there is a willingness to work together, to find solutions, and to keep at it until the change we all seek happens,” said Governor Leon Guerrero. “Change is happening, and we are deeply encouraged by our community’s call to action and the response we received from the many different car clubs on our island.”

“Governor Leon Guerrero has made a commitment to revitalizing our community by opening up recreation centers, gymnasiums, and refurbishing basketball courts and has tasked me with these projects,” said Lt. Governor Tenorio. “Keeping all of Paseo open, including this parking lot, is in line with what we have been doing over the past three years, and we want to thank the leaders who represented the various car clubs for rising up and responding to our call for public safety.” 

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