More CIP Released for Big Island Projects

Gov. David Ige released more money for capital improvement projects on the Big Island, the Senate announced Tuesday.

Ige steered $705,000 to finance the construction of apron improvements at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keāhole, as well as $60,000 for ungulate-proof fencing to protect native species in Pālamanui Forest.

On Monday, Ige’s office announced the release of millions of CIP dollars for Big Island projects.

“I’m thrilled that Gov. Ige is following through on funding projects for the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport,” said Sen. Lorraine R. Inouye (District 4 – Hilo, Hāmākua, Kohala, Waimea, Waikōloa, Kona) in a press release issued on Tuesday. “Financing the design and construction for apron improvements at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport is critical to ensure that the Kona Airport’s airplane ground traffic is well maintained. The Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport is a vital economic hub for the Kona side of Hawai‘i Island.”

She added that Hawaiian dry forests, such as Pālamanui Forest, are some of the most endangered ecosystems in the world. Funding ungulate-proof fencing is a critical step to ensure the protection of Hawaiʻi’s native species.