Lee Auditorium Renovations Almost Complete The $3-million-dollar renovation work to the Governor H. Rex Lee Auditorium is slated to be completed by August. The building will feature state of the art lighting and sound systems, in addition to a conference room, kitchen, newer bathrooms, and central air conditioning, among other things

July 30, 2007 - By the time the territory hosts the 2008 Pacific Festival, the multi-million dollar renovations to the Lee Auditorium will be complete and the finish work will be nothing less than breathtaking.

Fletcher Construction is staying on top of the much needed renovation project which includes the installation of more modern upgrades and most notably, new roofing and a sign at the entrance that reads: “Governor H. Rex Lee Auditorium.”

Department of Public Works director Taeaotui Punaofo Tilei explained that part of the work includes changing the interior beams and the installation of an extension for a building that hasn’t gone through such extensive work since the mid-60s.

According to Taeaotui, the building will be fully air conditioned, with a conference room and a kitchen. Other additions include state of the art lighting and sound systems, newer bathrooms, a sound and light booth, and new electrical wiring.

The renovations should be completed by August and it is expected that future gatherings held at the Lee Auditorium, commonly known as the Fale Laumei for its turtle shape, will be more spectacular with the upgrades.

“It’s going to look and feel good once everything is done,” Taeaotui said.

Exterior improvements include an improved parking area, new  drainage, a rolling gate, and a new roof.

Taeaotui said that for events such as pageants, the mood will be set once the contestants get the chance to walk on the new stage and catwalk, with the special effects from the sophisticated lighting system bringing it all together.