State Seeking Feedback for 2015 Outdoor Recreation Plan

The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), Division of State Parks in partnership with PBR HAWAII & Associates, Inc., is seeking public feedback for a draft of the 2015 outdoor recreation plan in Hawai‘i.

The draft, called SCORP (Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan), is a comprehensive strategy that is updated every five years to assess the state’s outdoor recreation trends, needs, and priorities.

The five-year plan is informed by comments from recreation agencies and the public collected through online surveys and public meetings held last year between January and March. Over 1,100 people participated in feedback, identifying that the operation and maintenance of recreation facilities are the top priority for future investments.

Both the public and recreation agencies recognize an increasing demand for outdoor recreation facilities due to a growing population of residents on the Island. Ocean recreation is at the top of the list for Hawai’i visitors and residents, as well as the use of sports fields.

The recreation plan outlined in 2009 identified multi-use pathways for walking, jogging, and bicycling as a top priority, which is continued under the 2015 SCORP.

Responding to this demand, grants were awarded in 2014 to the County of Hawai‘i and DLNR to help build the new Hilo Bayfront Trails on the Big Island. The project is a multi-use trail system running through Mo‘oheau Park, Hilo Bayfront Park, and Hilo Bayfront Soccer Fields, as well as Wailoa River State Recreation Area.

According to the priorities identified in the SCORP, the National Park Service will select conservation projects for funding to best meet Hawai’i’s outdoor recreation needs.

The 14-page summary of SCORP findings, as well as the full draft can be viewed at the State Parks website.

Public comments can be submitted by e-mail or in writing by April 30 to: ccullison@pbrhawaii.com, or

PBR HAWAII & Associates, Inc.
Attn: Catie Cullison, AICP
1001 Bishop Street, Suite 650
Honolulu, HI 96813-3484