DLNR to begin repaving Koke‘e Rd.

LIHU‘E — The Department of Land and Natural Resources will be making improvements to sections of Koke‘e Road starting Monday, April 18. Work will consist of the repaving of some sections of the existing roadway from the park headquarters to the Kalalau Lookout, as stated by press release from DLNR.

The park will remain open during the project but there will be impacts to traffic such as slow downs and periodic stops to allow paving work to proceed.

“We will provide appropriate traffic control measures and appreciate the public’s understanding and patience during this period,” said Dan Quinn, State Parks Administrator.

The project contractor is Grace Pacific Corporation and the project cost is $400,000. The project is expected to be completed by the end of April.

The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority provided funding for this project through the transient accommodations tax revenues.

“We appreciate the support from the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, and their continued interest in improving our State Park facilities and helping us maintain our responsibilities for public health and safety,” said Quinn.

Koke‘e State Park is located 15 miles north of Kekaha on Koke‘e Road (Highway 550) at 3,600 feet elevation. It adjoins Waimea Canyon State Park. The park offers commanding views of the lush, amphitheater-headed Kalalau Valley from 4,000 foot elevation. The public can enjoy opportunities for wildland picnicking, tent camping and lodging, and hiking in native rain forest and along the rim of Waimea Canyon.  It is an excellent area for observation of native plants, forest birds and insects. There is seasonal plum picking and trout fishing. It offers restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic areas, camping, hiking trails, as well as a lodge and restaurant, drinking water fountains and pay phone.