Overview:
Palau closed out 2025 with a milestone year in infrastructure development — 28,090 feet of new and improved roads, new school access routes, upgraded utilities, and community facilities across eight states. A series of ribbon-cutting ceremonies marked the completion of projects funded under the Taiwan stimulus grant, building stronger connections and safer access for communities.
By: L.N. Reklai
KOROR, Palau — From airport security upgrades to newly paved state roads and school access improvements, Palau capped 2025 with a series of ribbon-cutting ceremonies celebrating capital projects funded through the Republic of China (Taiwan) economic stimulus grant program.
Between November 24 and 26, the national government and state leaders inaugurated projects across eight states, marking upgrades in transportation, education access, community resilience, and public safety infrastructure.
The improvements include road construction, waterline installations, utility upgrades, and the completion of multiple school access roads and parking lots. With new pavement and safety enhancements delivered across Babeldaob and Koror, the government highlighted the scale of this year’s road development — 28,090 linear feet of intra-state roads completed.
Palau has received approximately $11 million annually from Taiwan under the stimulus grant, which has funded capital improvement programs nationwide for more than two decades.
Roads open access, boost local economies
Government officials said this year’s projects strengthen connectivity between communities while increasing access to essential services.
“These important investments directly connect communities, fostering economic growth, and open new development opportunities across Babeldaob,” the Palau government said.
Taiwan representatives echoed this sentiment, noting that the infrastructure upgrades reflect the partnership’s long-term commitment to Palau’s development.
“These roads represent more than infrastructure — they are pathways to stronger economic growth, safer travel, and better access to essential services,” Ambassador Jessica Lee of the Republic of China – Taiwan stated.
“We hope they will help local businesses thrive, connect communities more efficiently, and support the health and well-being of people across the region. Taiwan is proud to stand with Palau as a friend and partner in building a brighter, more resilient future together.”
Roads and access projects completed this year
Melekeok State
- Dispensary Road: 4,260 linear feet, waterline installation.
Aimeliik State
- Mongami Road: 8,820 linear feet.
- Meltelatel Road: 8,200 linear feet.
- Mechebechubel–Nekken Road (shared with Ngatpang): 2,290 linear feet.
Ngatpang State
- Mechebechubel Community Center: new multi-use facility and typhoon shelter.
- Shared Mechebechubel–Nekken Road completion.
Koror State
- Ngesaol Road: 1,300 linear feet.
- George B. Harris Elementary School access road and parking area completed.
- Palau High School access road and parking area completed.
- Meyuns Elementary School access and parking upgrades.
Ngeremlengui State
- Dispensary Road: 1,870 linear feet.
Ngchesar State
- Ngerngesang–Shimizu Road: 1,350 linear feet.
Airai State
- Oikull Road improvement with new utility line and 50,000-gallon water tank.
- Palau International Airport customs inspection upgrade with two AI-equipped X-ray machines.
Celebrations mark a milestone year
The three-day series of ceremonies signaled renewed infrastructure momentum as Palau expands transport links, modernizes public facilities, and prepares communities for future growth. Many of the upgrades — including school access roads — are expected to ease travel, improve safety, and support students, families, and essential service providers.
With nearly three miles of new and upgraded roads opening this year alone, officials say the impact will be felt long-term in mobility, commerce, and quality of life.