DLNR Hosts Meetings on Kaunakakai Ferry Improvements

File photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

An informational meeting will be held on Molokai to discuss the planned construction activities and improvements for the Molokai to Maui commuter ferry.

The meeting, hosted by the Department of Land and Natural Resources will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 16, at the Mitchell Pau‘ole Center, and will also include information on impacts to harbor operations.

“DLNR is the lead agency coordinating the design and construction of this major project, in coordination with the state Department of Transportation-Harbors Division, which manages the commercial harbor side,” said William J. Aila in a statement. “Public use of this essential harbor will continue during construction.”

DLNR Engineering Division staff, project design consultant Wilson Okamoto Corp. and contractor Hawaiian Dredging Construction Company will discuss the scope and schedule of the project.  They will also provide an overview of the construction phasing plan, including how vehicular and pedestrian access will be maintained to the harbor.

The proposed improvements at Kaunakakai Harbor include: the conversion of the existing ferry shelter into a comfort station and a new covered passenger waiting area; installation of a new sewer lift station and 6-inch force main that will eliminate the existing septic system and leach field; and installation of 12-inch and 8-inch fire protection waterlines.

State officials say the ferry, Kaunakakai Small Boat Harbor and boat ramp, the fuel station, and Young Brothers barges will remain in operation during construction.

Construction on the $5 million is set to start at the end of May 2012, and is expected to take one year to complete.

***Supporting information courtesy Hawaii State Department of Land and Natural Resources.