Governor releases more than $8M for Big Island capitol improvement projects

Hawai’i Gov. Josh Green recently released more than $8 million in capitol improvement funds for several projects in state Senate District 1, which includes Hilo, Paukaʻa, Papaikou and Pepeʻekeo.

State Sen. Lorraine Inouye, who represents District 1, said the funds will address essential needs at Hilo Medical Center, enhance watershed protection efforts on the Big Island and support the much needed reroofing of the state Division of Forestry and Wildlife branch office in Hilo.

The funding breakdown includes:

• $4,376,016.10 for construction of watershed protection fences for Hawai‘i Island on the slopes of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa to protect ʻōhiʻa forests.
• $3.5 million to finance design and construction for electrical upgrades to support future air conditioning improvements and for upgrades to the bells and paging system at Waiākea Intermediate School in Hilo.
• $200,000 for construction and equipment improvements for the extended care department facility at Hilo Medical Center, including the installation of an air conditioning system and replacing a leaking roof.
• $185,000 to reroof the Division of Forestry and Wildlife branch office in Hilo.

“I am thrilled to share the news of this important investment in our community,” said Inouye, adding she looks forward to seeing the projects come to fruition. “These projects will not only improve the quality of life for our residents and students but also contribute to the economic vitality of our community and protecting our environment.”