Hawai’i County Mayor Billy Kenoi, along with members of the County Council, State lawmakers, and Parker Ranch Inc. executives, joined together Monday for the groundbreaking and traditional Hawaiian blessing for a new 24-acre Waimea District Park.
Three covered play courts, a lighted ball field, and a children’s playground are among the items included in phase one of the project, slated for completion in December 2016.
“It’s going to be a pu’uhonua [place of peace and safety] in beautiful Waimea,” Mayor Kenoi said at the ceremony.
The park will be situated on land that Parker Ranch donated, located near its former headquarters, and will extend to Ala ‘Ōhi‘a Road.
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“This is truly an exciting day for Waimea and the Big Island,” said Dutch Kuyper, Parker Ranch president and CEO, noting athletic fields are where children can learn good sportsmanship and humility, even in defeat.
Phase one of the project will be completed by Contractor Nan Inc. In addition to the facilities, the project includes accessible walkways, over 150 paved parking spaces, landscaping, and infrastructure.
During Monday’s ceremony, Mayor Kenoi thanked the Waimea community, including the Waimea District Park Builders, for believing in their dream of a new park.
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Mayor Kenoi also thanked State leaders, the County Council, and the Department of Parks and Recreation for their role in funding, approving, and managing the project.
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