Overview:
Ngchesar State has marked the completion of Phase XVI of the Shimizu–Ngerngesang Road Paving Project, a key infrastructure initiative that has improved transportation access for residents over the past two decades. The milestone highlights continued investment in community development through partnerships between Palau, Ngchesar State and Taiwan.
By: Laurel Marewibuel
KOROR, Palau. Ngchesar State officials, community leaders and residents gathered June 8, 2026, to mark the completion of Phase XVI of the Shimizu–Ngerngesang Road Paving Project, a long-running infrastructure initiative aimed at improving transportation access within the state.
The milestone was commemorated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by national and state representatives, as well as Taiwan Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao, who delivered brief remarks during the event. Hsiao emphasized the importance of infrastructure development in supporting community growth and reaffirmed Taiwan’s continued partnership with Palau.
The road project is funded through Palau’s Economic Stimulus Package (ESP) and has been underway since 2000. It focuses on paving and upgrading the roadway connecting Shimizu and Ngerngesang Village, with progress carried out in multiple phases over the years.
Phase XVI, funded with $250,000 under the fiscal year 2025 ESP, was completed by Fortune Investment and Development Corporation. The phase achieved full completion and added approximately 15 linear feet of paved roadway.
To date, the project has completed 16 phases, resulting in a total of approximately 13,183 linear feet of paved road. Overall investment in the project has reached about $4.45 million.
Officials say the continued development of the roadway is expected to enhance connectivity, improve transportation access and contribute to the overall quality of life for residents of Ngchesar State. The project reflects ongoing collaboration between the national government, the Ngchesar State Government and the Republic of China (Taiwan).