The state DOT will be the beneficiary of $3.1 million in federal funds, through the Hawaii Port Infrastructure Expansion Program, for port improvements at Kawaihae Harbor. This infrastructure project will be the first of many to be conducted under partnership between the federal Maritime Administration and the state Harbors Division.

From left to right: Elton Suganuma (Harbor Master), Kahu Danny Akaka, Wayne Tanaka (Senator Inouye’s office) and Joanna Nellos (Akimeka, LLC).

Under a Memorandum of Agreement with the DOT, the Maritime Administration has contracted the services of Akimeka, LLC, for the design and construction of pier apron and harbor yard improvements to facilitate the efficient movement and handling of inter-island shipping container operations.

“This project will include the demolition of an existing pier shed and open up 0.7 acres for harbor improvements,” says Michael Formby, deputy director of DOT harbors division. “This frees up more room for container space, construction of drainage improvements, increased lighting and other safety enhancements.”

This infrastructure project will be the first of many to be conducted under partnership between the federal Maritime Administration and the state Harbors Division. The Maritime Administration anticipates contracting an additional $4.5 million in federal funds for commercial harbor projects in the near future.

“We are very appreciative that U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye continues to pursue federal funds for our state infrastructure projects,” says DOT director Brennon Morioka. “This will not only create more local jobs, but improve the capacity and efficiency of future operations at Kawaihae Harbor.”

The project will be 100% federally-funded. The project just broke ground and is expected to be complete by October 2009.