Ulu Wini Playspace Completed

Na Kahua O Ulu Wini’s new outdoor playground has been completed. Work on the project began in March. NyLawn began construction of the Mega Tower playground with assistance from Ulu Wini residents and volunteers from Lake Mead Christian Academy, who assisted in prepping the turf area.

Made possible through a contribution from the Roberts Foundation, the $180,000 Miracle Mega Tower is state-of-the-art. It is the first playground equipment at the housing complex, and also the first play structure of its kind in Hawai’i.

“This is a valuable recreation area for Ulu Wini residents and keiki,” said Brandee Menino, Chief Executive Officer of HOPE Services Hawai’i. “We are so thankful to the Roberts Foundation. the playground provides an opportunity for families to socialize and children to exercise outdoors in beautiful Kailua-Kona.”

During the grand opening, Kahu Brian Broshard led a blessing and maile lei cutting ceremony. A variety of councilmembers were present on behalf of the County of Hawai’i, including Maile David, Karen Eoff, and Dru Kanuha. Susan Akiyama from the Office of Housing and Community Development was also present on behalf of the County of Hawai’i administration.

Ulu Wini keiki performed hula, hip-hop, and Tahititan routines, and poetry was read in gratitude to the Roberts Foundation following the ceremony.

“I am gratified that the children of Ulu Wini have a safe and beautiful space to play,” said Dru Kanuha, Hawai’i County Council Chair. “Through the generosity of the Roberts Foundation and the hard work and coordination by HOPE Services Hawai’i, there will be a playground for keiki and families to enjoy for years to come.”

Featuring four brightly-colored play structures, the 62-foot by 52-foot Mega Tower includes a heptagon double decker tower and water fountain, spiral and wave slides, a fish bridge, play panels, and climbing apparatus, including stairs, risers, ladders, and a fossil bluff climbing wall.

Recycled steel roofing and commercial grade fabric umbrellas cover the play structures, with the exception of the water fountain.

In 2013, the homes at Ulu Wini were built by the County of Hawai’i’s Office of Housing & Community Development, they are operated by HOPE Services. The housing complex provides 96 two-bedroom units, made up by 24 transitional housing for homeless families, 71 affordable housing units dedicated to low-income families, and one unit for the resident manager.

Photo courtesy of HOPE Services Hawai’i.

Photo courtesy of HOPE Services Hawai’i.

Photo courtesy of HOPE Services Hawai’i.

Photo courtesy of HOPE Services Hawai’i.