East Hawaii News

County Council rejects funding bill for Puna Makai Alternate Route Study on second and final reading

The bill would have accepted and added into the County’s budget $1 million from the state, which Puna state Rep. Greggor Ilagan was able to get allocated as a line item in the state budget in 2021, and another $500,000 from County coffers for the Hawai‘i County Department of Public Works to do the study.

New data reveals 10s of thousands visit 2 Hilo beach parks in single month; residents express concern

Data collected throughout a 6-month period which wrapped up at the end of December shows Waiuli, also known as Richardson Ocean Park, has an estimated monthly visitation of nearly 24,000 people while more than 10,000 are gauged to use Lehia, or King’s Landing.

Rare high-altitude ‘rainbow clouds’ make appearance over Big Island

East Hawai‘i was treated to a colorful show Tuesday evening as the sun set and into dusk with the appearance of rare wispy-like noctilucent clouds. The iridescent clouds thrilled and captivated those who saw them, in person and in photos on social media, hovering through the upper atmosphere.

Big Island police investigating death of man involved in altercation and fight in downtown Hilo

Shortly after 5:40 p.m. Tuesday, Hilo patrol officers and Hawai‘i Fire Department personnel responded to a report of an unresponsive man fronting the Mo‘oheau Bus Terminal. The man was reportedly assaulted several minutes earlier.

Top 20 things to do on Big Island for Jan. 18-24: Volcano Awareness Month events, ‘Art is Healing’ exhibit, ‘Riding the Tides of Music’ concert, Mrs. Roper Romp and much more

There once again is plenty to do around the island this week for the entire family, including music, films, art, workshops and learning opportunities.

Fire hydrant flow test scheduled for portion of Kekūanaō‘a Street in Hilo

The Hawai’i County Department of Water Supply will conduct the test from 10 to 11 p.m. Jan. 18.

County Council postpones decision on funding bill for Puna Makai Alternate Route Study

There is no infrastructure work planned at this time. Bill 107 only would put funds into the County budget for the study, which would be conducted to find an alternate route in and out of Puna to Hilo below Highway 130.

County Council accepts $13M federal grant for repairs at former Hilo Memorial Hospital

The Hawai‘i County Office of Housing and Community Development anticipates bidding out the project, which would focus on repairing the dilapidated old hospital’s roof and removing hazardous materials, including asbestos, sometime during the first three months of this year. Construction should begin sometime shortly after a contract is awarded.

Top 20 things to do on the Big Island for Jan. 11-17: Continue the New Year’s celebration in Pepe‘ekeo, join the Men of Pa‘a for a Makahiki cultural festival, attend Volcano Awareness Month events and much more

The Big Island once again has no lack of activities, events, shows and entertainment lined up during the next week, including opera, horse camp for keiki, classes and more.

Update: Portion of Kīlauea Avenue in Hilo reopens after traffic accident

The road was closed several hours. More information will be provided as it becomes available.

Update: Big Island police locate Tyree Shaw one month after his disappearance

Tyree Maurice Shaw, 46, is 5-foot-4, 173 pounds with a dark complexion, short black hair and brown eyes. He is known to frequent various locations around the Big Island.

Kaʻūmana Caves in Hilo to reopen next week

The popular destination for Big Island residents and visitors alike was closed in September 2023 because of a rock fall and partial collapse.

Business Monday: Big Island gyms provide equipment, support for New Year’s health kicks

A benefit of joining a gym is meeting other people who can support you in your fitness goals.

Flash flood watch issued for Big Island as forecast calls for possibility of heavy rain associated with cold front

The heaviest rain is expected initially for Kaua‘i beginning late Sunday before spreading down the island chain Monday. A few thunderstorms will also be possible.

16-year-old in critical condition following collision in Hilo involving on-duty Big Island police officer

A negligent injury investigation was initiated and the officer involved in the incident, who was not injured, was placed on administrative leave pending investigation, which is standard procedure. The Office of Professional Standards also initiated an internal inquiry as a result of the collision.

Top 20 things to do on Big Island for Jan. 4-10: Music, comedy, job fairs and more

It’s the beginning of a new year and there are plenty of events happening during the next week, giving residents and visitors alike the chance to start 2024 with music, comedy and more.

Business Monday: Da Beans Green Café serves up ‘spirit-lifter’ New Year’s Eve meal

Phoenix and Kimberleigh Finnegan and their family opened their doors this year on New Year’s Eve for anyone, no matter how much money they have, to gather with them for a good meal and an entire holiday experience.

Update: Missing 17-year-old found in good health

Thane Leialoha Jr. was located Friday in Hilo.

New parking rates take effect Feb. 1, 2024, at neighbor island airports, including on Big Island

The last time parking rates for Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport and Hilo International Airport, as well as at Lῑhuʻe Airport on Kaua‘i and for Kahului Airport on Maui, were adjusted was in 2015.

Big Island man sentenced for stabbing his ex-girlfriend multiple times in 2021

27-year-old Cyrus Jabilona of Hilo was sentenced to serve 20 years for attempted manslaughter and 5 years for felony abuse of a family member.
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