For Immediate Release: June 15, 2006

"Due to excavation work at the camping area for the septic system, camp sites will be closed for up to two months to ensure public safety," said Peter Young, DLNR chairperson.

"The upper picnic area will remain open but excavation and construction work will impose some inconvenience and noise during the construction period. However, we are expediting the work to reduce the period of some temporary inconveniences," Young said. "For example, work will be done simultaneously on the two comfort stations, but portable toilets will be provided."

"As part of the Lingle-Aiona Administration's focus on improving park conditions, we are currently implementing renovations statewide to meet accessibility standards, replacing aging cesspools, and upgrading our facilities at selected parks."

New camping permits will not be issued during the closure of the camping area. DLNR will open up the camping area as soon as public safety from construction activity can be assured.

The pavilion at the upper picnic area and the pavilion nearest to the heiau will have construction improvements occurring, but other pavilions in the park will be open. Parking spaces near these project areas may be blocked off for parking improvements.

The accessibility project and the wastewater improvement project will constructed by contractor BCP Construction of Hawaii. The accessibility project will cost $277,979. The total cost of the wastewater improvement project at Keaiwa is being combined with a similar project at Kaena Point State Park at a cost of $307,969. Completion of the project at Keaiwa is expected by end of August, 2006.

The following work will be done:

-At the Keaiwa heiau area, improvements will be made on the pathway to the nearby pavilion, an accessible picnic table will be installed in the pavilion, the existing barbecue grill and sink will be made accessible, and signage installed.

-At the campground area, re-striping will be done to create an accessible parking stall and aisle and signage will be installed; comfort station improvements will include installation of accessible fixtures such as lavatories, toilets, new accessible shower stall with bench and grab bars; new accessible changing bench and clothes hook; new doors and partitions; new roofing and skylights; signage and repair work on tile and walls as needed. A new accessible sink will be installed outside the men's restroom. A new wastewater system with septic tanks will be constructed to service the comfort station in the camping area.

-At the upper picnic area, work will include: installing an accessible picnic table in the pavilion, re-striping to create an accessible parking stall, aisle and signage; and comfort station improvements: pathway improvements; new accessible hi-lo drinking fountain; installation of accessible fixtures such as lavatories, water closets, toilet paper holders and urinal; new partitions and doors; new roofing and skylights; signage and repair work on tile and walls as needed. A new wastewater system with septic tanks will be constructed to service the comfort station in the upper picnic area.

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