GOVERNOR LINGLE RELEASES $5.2 MILLION FOR ROCKFALL MITIGATION ON O`AHU

For Immediate Release:  March 7, 2006

HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle has released $5,200,000 for construction of rockfall mitigation measures:  $3,200,000 for Komo Mai Drive in Pearl City and $2,600,000 for Old Puunui Quarry in Nu`uanu.  Both projects are expected to be completed by summer 2007.

“These are life-saving projects that will better protect the public,” said Governor Lingle.  “They will safeguard the community from rockfall occurrences that can result from erosion, poor weather conditions and natural disasters.”

Komo Mai Drive – $3,200,000
The steep slopes and an unstable rock catchment area has led to a risk of rockfalls from state lands onto Komo Mai Drive, causing hazards for motorists. 

The project involves a cable mesh system that will cover the hillside to prevent further soil erosion and reduce the potential for future rockfall occurrences. 

Old Puunui Quarry – $2,600,000
Past quarrying operations at the Old Puunui Quarry, located on state land above a residential area in Nu`uanu, has created instability in the rock formation.  In addition, the natural slope above the quarried area causes runoff, which leads to erosion and further instability.

The plans require the installation of a special rock protection fence along the lower portions of the state land, demolition or stabilization of the unstable large rocks, and scaling of the smaller loose rocks.

The total project cost is $2,855,000 with $255,000 previously allotted.  
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For more information, contact:
Peter Young              
Director, DLNR         
Phone: 587-0401

Lenny Klompus
Senior Advisor – Communications
Phone: 586-7708

Russell Pang
Chief of Media Relations
Phone: 586-0043