If playback is interrupted, you can restart it.
TUMON, Guam— The Guam Visitors Bureau (GVB), together with contractor Guahan Trail Stewards, met with Humåtak residents, hikers and community members Wednesday evening to gather input on the proposed Sella Bay Overlook Trail project.
The town hall focused on how potential improvements could enhance trail access and safety while preserving Sella Bay’s natural landscape and cultural significance. Community members, including regular trail users, shared firsthand observations about trail conditions, erosion, accessibility and the importance of protecting the character of the area.
GVB emphasized that the beautification project remains in the planning and conceptual design phase. No final trail alignment or construction plan has been confirmed or approved.
The project is part of GVB’s broader effort to revitalize nature-based and cultural eco-tourism on Guam while improving the safety, maintenance, and sustainability of one of the island’s most recognized outdoor attractions.
“We are still listening, and that is an important part of this process,” said Régine Biscoe Lee, GVB President & CEO. “Sella Bay is iconic because of its natural beauty, its cultural significance, and the connection our community already has with the area. Any future improvements need to respect that. We have an opportunity to make the experience safer and more sustainable while making sure we are protecting what makes Sella Bay special in the first place.”
Finding a Balance Between Access and Preservation
Much of Wednesday’s discussion centered on finding the right balance between improving the visitor experience and preserving the landscape. Potential considerations range from addressing erosion and trail safety to making access more manageable for families and emergency responders.
Residents offered stories, observations and practical knowledge gained from regularly using the trail. GVB officials said that local experience will be important as field assessments and planning continue.
Humåtak Mayor Johnny “Bada” Quinatasaid responsible development of the area could bring benefits to the village while encouraging greater stewardship.
“More people will come to Humåtak,” Quinata said. “It’s good for residents, visitors, and the military. I’m happy because it promotes taking care of the property and picking up trash. I want everyone to come down and enjoy. That’s what it’s all about — our culture.”
Ina Carillo, GVB Director of Destination Development, thanked residents and trail users for contributing their knowledge to the planning process.
“Thank you to everyone who came out and shared your feedback with us,” Carillo said. “We are grateful for the input, especially from the residents who actually hike and know the areas best. They know the trail, they know the conditions, and they understand what makes this area special. That knowledge is invaluable to us as we continue planning and conducting field assessments.”
Community and Agency Input to Continue
GVB thanked Mayor Quinata and Humåtak residents for their hospitality, partnership and willingness to share their knowledge of the area. The bureau also recognized Ryan Raguindin of Guahan Trail Stewards, whose firm was selected through a competitive Request for Proposal process to provide trail development and maintenance expertise.
GVB said the competitive procurement process supports financial transparency and accountability, while the contractor’s expertise will contribute to responsible trail stewardship and respect for the land.
The town hall also reinforced the shared responsibility of residents and visitors to care for Guam’s natural and public spaces. GVB currently supports park and beach maintenance, landscaping, beautification and other destination stewardship initiatives throughout the island.
As planning for the Sella Bay project moves forward, GVB expects to coordinate with multiple government agencies to address land status, environmental and conservation requirements, cultural and archaeological preservation, road access, public safety and long-term maintenance.
Agencies expected to participate include the Department of Land Management; Department of Agriculture and Forestry; Guam Environmental Protection Agency; Bureau of Statistics and Plans; Guam Coastal Management Program; Guam State Historic Preservation Office; Department of Public Works; and Department of Parks and Recreation.
The interagency process will help determine what can appropriately move forward before any final trail design or construction plan is approved.
Building on the Sella Bay Trail Pilot Initiative
GVB first introduced the Sella Bay Trail as a pilot initiative in September 2025, with an emphasis on improving trail safety and the overall visitor experience.
The initial concept included informational and directional signage, an improved walkway, designated rest areas and enhanced security considerations around the parking area.
GVB said community engagement will remain a key part of the process as those concepts are evaluated and refined.
The bureau stressed that responsible improvements require careful planning, stakeholder participation and coordination among government agencies, residents and people who regularly use the trail.
For GVB, the goal is to improve safety and sustainability without losing the qualities that have made Sella Bay an important natural, recreational and cultural place for generations.
Leave a Comment