Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau, Kaloko-Honokōhau and Pu’ukoholā Heiau seek public input on draft accessibility plans
Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park (KAHO), Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park (PUHO) and Pu’ukoholā Heiau National Historical Site (PUHE) are seeking public input on what the National Park Service calls, “Draft Accessibility Self-Evaluation and Transition Plans.”
The three west Hawai‘i parks released the draft plans this fall. Public comment is a critical part of the National Park Service planning process. The public comment period for all plans will close on Dec. 24.
An interdisciplinary team, including park and regional staff, identified the key experiences in each park and evaluated park areas to determine which would be considered for accessibility improvements. The team developed implementation strategies for the accessibility improvements at each location.
Each plan will guide changes to the way existing services, activities, and programs are provided in multiple locations throughout the parks by defining what barriers limit accessibility and providing recommendations on how they can be modified or removed to increase accessibility for all users.
The Department of the Interior guidance for implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 requires parks to perform accessibility self-evaluations and to prepare transition plans. Federal agencies are required to evaluate their current programs, policies, and practices dealing with accessibility and develop strategies for making the necessary changes to improve them.
To review the plans and submit your comments, please visit the Planning, Environment, and Public Comment page on the following websites:
In addition, you can explore how all the parks are linked through the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail on this website: Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail (arcgis.com). The Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail did not complete an accessibility plan, but by following the above link you can learn about and comment upon Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail accessibility.
For more information, please call 808-328-2326 ext. 1101 or 808-329-6881 ext.1201.