For Immediate Release: February 3, 2009

DLNR TO BEGIN CONSTRUCTION ON POHOIKI RAMP IMPROVEMENTS
-- RAMP CLOSED FEBRUARY 4 THROUGH MARCH 4

PAHOA, HAWAI‘I – The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) will begin construction work, starting tomorrow, February 4, on replacement of the existing Pohoiki Boat Ramp and Loading Dock.

DLNR Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (DOBOR) announced the construction schedule will require closing the ramp entirely between February 4 and March 4. During the one month closure period the contractor will demolish and remove the existing concrete boat ramp, loading dock and access to the loading dock; and will construct a new concrete boat ramp, accessible ramp and loading dock.

While the ramp is closed, boaters will need to utilize the Wailoa Small Boat Harbor in Hilo. DOBOR Hawai‘i District personnel have notified by phone the more than 30 frequent users who attended an public informational meeting on December 8.

After March 4 or upon completion of the new ramp and loading dock the contractor will construct a new rock revetment along the North side of the launch ramp and adjacent sloped area, complete the installation of the plastic fenders and rubber bumpers and miscellaneous work.

“As part of the Lingle-Aiona Administration’s ongoing efforts to upgrade our small boat harbors statewide, we are replacing the existing Pohoiki boat ramp and loading dock due to their poor condition,” said Laura H. Thielen, DLNR chairperson. “These improvements will ensure accessibility, safety and comfort for residents and visitors who use this boating facility.”

The Pohoiki boat ramp and loading dock replacement project was designed by DLNR’s consultant firm Wilson Okamoto Corporation. Project contractor is Kaikor Construction and the project will cost $965,000. Project completion date is expected in June this year.

DLNR’s contractor will employ best management practices to protect water quality and other construction-related activities. Erosion control silt fences, chain line fence with dust screen fabric will be installed, as well as silt curtains, graveled entrance and wash down basin.

“We thank the boaters for their patience during this construction period,” said Thielen. “We anticipate additional noise, dust and vehicular traffic due to construction activities, but these impacts are temporary and will cease with the completion of the project.”

DLNR conducted extensive outreach about the project, hosting several public meetings in the community. DOBOR staff and personnel from Kaikor Corporation held a public meeting on December 8 to provide boaters information on project details and timeframe. Construction was originally slated to begin last month, but was postponed to assure boaters and fishers ocean access for New Year fishing.

Contractor delays further extended the start date to February. Prefabricated ramp sections were poured in recent weeks and required inspection prior to use. Panels were inspected on Monday, February 2, 2009 by the Engineering Division Construction Inspector. As soon as it was clear that work could proceed, DLNR immediately began alerting users about the impending closure of the ramp.

# # #

News release in brief: The Department of Land and Natural Resources will close the Pohoiki Boat launch ramp starting February 4 through March 4 to construct a new ramp and loading dock. For more information boaters may call (808) 329-4997.

Return to DOBOR homepage