DLNR: Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park Master Plan Open House and Meeting

File image of Kealakekua Bay.

A community meeting regarding Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park will take place on Saturday, Jan. 30 at Konawaena Elementary School.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of State Parks, in partnership with Belt Collins Hawai’i, is hosting the meeting as part of the planning process for the Master Plan Update and an Environmental Impact Statement.

In May 2015, DLNR initiated an update of the Master Plan for Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park. The initiation followed the inclusion of the bay within the park.

The previous planning phase in 2008-2010 addressed the 221 acres of land area around the bay.

This update will include the bay, Nāpō‘opo‘o Landing, marine resources, and ocean recreation. Resource studies have recently been completed, including a survey of the marine resources, an ocean recreation assessment, an updated traffic study, and surveys of the flora and fauna in the park.

Those interested in reviewing and discussing the preliminary alternative for the management and development of Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park are invited to attend the open house from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. and discussion session from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Study findings will be shared, along with the alternatives that address public use, management of important resources, and proposed facilities.

“As we update our master planning for Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park, we’ve made a concerted effort to integrate planning for the bay and ocean recreation with the land-based park and the concerns of the local community” said Curt Cottrell, DLNR State Parks Administrator. “We know how popular this bay is with both residents and visitors, and are seeking input on management and development alternatives that will balance recreational use with the historical and cultural values of this very special place,” Cottrell said.

Kealakekua is one of the most culturally and historically significant places in Hawai’i and the goal of the park planning is to balance the preservation of the cultural values and historical sites with the recreational use of the park, especially the very popular Kealakekua Bay.

Anyone in need of special assistance should contact John Kirkpatrick of Belt Collins Hawai’i by Jan. 22.

Those unable to attend the meeting can review materials online and submit comments through Feb. 28.