GOVERNOR LINGLE RELEASES $900,000 FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO ‘IOLANI PALACE

For Immediate Release:  April 9, 2007

HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle has released $900,000 for air conditioning and climate control improvements to ‘Iolani Palace.

“As an incredible symbol of our state’s history, preserving ‘Iolani Palace is vital for future generations,” Governor Linda Lingle said.  “These improvements will protect an icon of Hawaiian history and help to preserve valuable cultural artifacts.”

The funds will be used for the design and construction of energy-efficient climate control improvements and mold damage remediation.  The existing air conditioning system has deteriorated and fails to provide the necessary uniform climate control throughout the Palace.  Improvements will include removal of the air-conditioning chillers from the Palace towers and construction of three new 50-ton chillers to be located on the Palace grounds, replacement of fan coil air conditioning units, mold remediation improvements, and electrical improvements. 

Total cost of the project is estimated at $5,400,000, of which the remaining $4,500,000 is included in the Administration’s budget request for FY08.  Planning and design phases will begin this September. 

‘Iolani Palace was the official residence of the Hawaiian Kingdom’s last two monarchs – King  Kalakaua, who built the Palace in 1882, and his sister and successor, Queen Lili‘uokalani.  The Palace is the only royal residence in the United States. 

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For more information, contact:

Peter Young, Director
Director, Dept. of Land and Natural Resources
Phone: (808) 587-0401

Lenny Klompus
Senior Advisor – Communications
Phone:  (808) 586-7708

Russell Pang
Chief of Media Relations
Phone: (808) 586-0043