MEDIA RELEASE

Starting Monday, Feb. 1, the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) will begin construction to replace the potable water system at Wailoa State Recreation Area.

The improvements include the replacement of the water main starting from its connection on Manono Street and running into park grounds. This water main will connect with waterlines servicing the comfort station, three rental pavilions, service faucets; and a new accessible drinking fountain.

The park will remain open but there will be some inconvenience to park users during construction. The work will impact certain pathways to the pavilions and comfort station. In case water service to the park is disrupted, interim water service and portable toilets will be provided if needed.

“Wailoa River State Recreation Area is heavily used by Big Island residents as it provides a variety of recreational amenities including picnic pavilions that can accommodate large groups and events,” said Laura H. Thielen, DLNR chairwoman.

“These long-awaited improvements are a key component of the Lingle-Aiona Administration’s ongoing efforts to upgrade our aging state parks facilities statewide, and to ensure public health and safety for those who use the parks,” she said. “In conjunction with DLNR’s Recreational Renaissance, we are continuing to improve recreational areas because we know they are important to local families for picnicking, hiking, camping and other activities.”

The contractor is BCP Construction of Hawaii and the project cost is $168,000. The project is scheduled to be completed by August 2010.

“The contractor will utilize appropriate safety barriers and practices to accommodate park users during the construction period. Please pardon the inconvenience and we appreciate your understanding during this period,” Thielen said.

This 132-acre landscaped park is located in downtown Hilo and set around the Wailoa River at the end of Piilani Street. It is open daily during daylight hours for pleasure walking, quiet relaxation, informal games and events, picnicking, and access to fishing via the Wailoa boat ramp.

Information services and cultural displays are available at Wailoa Visitor’s Center which is accessible off Pauahi through Piopio Street. There are restrooms, picnic tables, trash cans, drinking water.