Byline: Associated Press
KAILUA-KONA, Hawaii (AP) — A Big Island project to improve Kawaihae’s Small Boat Harbor is going forward after years of environmental disputes.
West Hawaii Today reported that delays occurred over the potential impact to coral and species listed under the Endangered Species Act, including one of 14 coral species found at the project site.
After years of study and plans to mitigate damage, the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources was granted permission to go forward with the more than $4.7 million project. The project aims to provide more space for mooring minimum-draft vessels, and other improvements such as more parking and an outdoor shower area.
A groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled to take place in June, with construction to be completed by 2014.
