Isaac Kepoʻokalani Hale Beach Park in Puna to be temporarily closed starting next week

Hawai‘i County Department of Parks and Recreation announces that beginning Sept. 2 Isaac Kepoʻokalani Hale Beach Park in Puna will be closed until further notice.

Park closure is necessary to support public safety efforts during crane dredging operations at Pohoiki Boat Ramp, which is located at the park.

The $9.28 million project entails removal of sand and other lava debris accumulated during the 2018 Kīlauea eruption and restore an entrance channel for the boat ramp.

The project is scheduled to be completed by November.

“Once completed, the dredging project at Pohoiki will restore boat access that is vital for the Puna community,” said Hawai‘i County Mayor Kimo Alameda in an announcement about the park closure. “This temporary park closure is necessary to ensure the project is done safely and effectively. We appreciate the public’s patience and understanding as we work to ensure the restoration and long-term resilience of this important community gathering place.”

The boat ramp restoration project began in June and is entering a phase that requires a crane to dredge volcanic debris on the ocean side of the channel.

Crane dredging operations will begin Sept. 3 and continue through October.

“This project is critical to restore ocean access for the Puna community fishers, boaters and emergency rescue personnel,” said Hawai‘i Department of Land and Natural Resources Engineer Finn McCall in the closure announcement, adding the crane dredging operations will be carrying heavy loads of lava debris overhead. “Even during non-dredging operations, the crane may present a safety hazard to the public.”

Hawaiʻi County Councilwoman Ashley Kierkiewicz, whose district includes Pohoiki, echoed Alameda and McCall’s words about the importance of restoring the boat ramp and protecting public safety.

“Our local lawaiʻa have waited years for the boat ramp to be usable again, often making long detours just to access the ocean,” said Kierkiewicz in the announcement. “The county and our community partners have worked closely with [Hawai‘i Department of Land and Natural Resources] to advocate for dredging, and this temporary closure ensures the work can be done safely and efficiently.”

She added that restoring the boat ramp means restoring an essential connection to the ocean that was lost beause of the 2018 eruption.