Missed Opportunity - Recreational Renaissance Plan

The comprehensive plan to reinvest in Hawai`i's recreational infrastructure, which had the support of 27 organizations and the House Majority Caucus, died late Friday evening with no explanation from the Legislature.

"We want to draw a distinction between how we operate – in public with rational explanations; and how [the Legislature] has operated this session – behind closed doors with no rhyme or reason to some of the most important decisions that faced them this session," said Governor Lingle.

The innovative Recreational Renaissance plan developed by DLNR employees had no budget implications and would have added over $100 million in "shovel ready" construction projects to repair our state parks, trails and small boat harbors.  These projects could have added close to 3,000 jobs over the next two years for Hawai‘i’s small business contractors.

As the plan evolved throughout the legislative session, the department conducted more than 100 community meetings across the state to solicit input from residents who use these facilities.

A Maui News editorial highlighted the Legislature's failure to "put people to work improving and protecting the islands' main resource," writing:

"For probably the first time in history, the governor and the state Department of Land and Natural Resources put together a plan to refurbish state parks, trailer ramps and small-boat harbors, all facilities that not only attract visitors but also provide opportunities for small businesses and local workers.

"Just as important as the direct economic benefits, the governor's "Recreational Renaissance" signaled a concern for a resource that has always been neglected due to exactly the kind of specious reasoning expressed by Rep. Marcus Oshiro, D-Waihiawa-Poamoho."

Despite their disappointment that the Recreational Renaissance Plan did not pass this session, DLNR staff remain committed to carrying out their mission as stewards of Hawai‘i’s natural and cultural resources to the best of their ability and will move forward with repair and maintenance projects to improve the standards of these facilities, while incorporating the valuable input they received from the public.

"We owe it to the public and the resources that we protect," said Curt Cottrell, Na Ala Hele trails and access program manager.

• "Lawmakers nix parks plan," Maui News, May 7, 2009
• "Renaissance can start - without a law," Honolulu Advertiser, May 8, 2009
• Watch this news conference.
• Read more about the Administration's Recreational Renaissance Plan.