KAHULUI BOAT RAMP IMPROVEMENTS EXPECTED TO FIX PONDING

The state begins phase two improvements to the Kahului Boat Launch Ramp on Monday, August 3, 2009.

Kahului Harbor file photo by Wendy Osher.

The $379,228 project includes the construction of a new 55-foot long by 5-foot wide engineered aluminum loading dock with fiberglass grating, adjacent to the existing concrete loading dock.

It also includes removal of the existing asphalt paved access road fronting the launch ramp, and construction of new concrete paved access road and new boat trailer turn around area.  There are also plans for the construction of an accessible trailer boat parking stall and washdown area, electrical and lighting improvements, and resurfacing of the paved area next to the existing washdown section.

The first phase of improvements began in 2006 to modernize the facility.  DLNR and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers worked together on the project which included the dredging of the entrance channel and turning basin, demolishing the existing ramp and breakwater, constructing a new breakwater, adding a three-lane boat launch ramp and two loading docks, and other miscellaneous improvements.

“These improvements will increase the usability of the launch facility, provide reliable service with less maintenance, improve accessibility, and correct ponding problems at the existing washdown area,” said Laura H. Thielen, DLNR chairperson.

“We request that boaters and other harbor users exercise caution when using the boat ramp, which will remain partially open throughout the construction.  One-half of the boat ramp and one of the two loading docks will be open at all times during the construction period,” said Thielen.

The project was designed by R.T. Tanaka Engineers, Inc., ECM Electrical Engineering Consultants, and Arnold T. Okubo and Associates, and will be constructed by Maui Master Builders.  The project is slated for completion by January 2, 2010.

(Posted by Wendy Osher; Information provided by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources)