GOVERNOR LINGLE RELEASES $500,000 FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO MAUNA‘ALA ROYAL MAUSOLEUM
For Immediate Release: April 18, 2007
HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle has released $500,000 for renovation and repairs to Mauna‘ala, the Royal Mausoleum which holds the remains of Hawai‘i’s ali‘i.
“Improvements to the Mauna‘ala Royal Mausoleum are key to preserving and respecting the heritage and traditions of our host Hawaiian culture,” said Governor Linda Lingle.
The grant-in-aid will enable Hawai‘i Maoli, a private non-profit branch of the Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs, to restore the Mausoleum’s structures, retain the integrity of the property and maintain security of the sacred remains. The funds will be used for general repairs including window and roofing replacements, driveway repair and exterior renovation, all of which increase the facility’s safety for the public and security of the treasured objects. Landscaping enhancement and replacement of the restrooms will also be completed. The last major repairs to Mauna‘ala were completed 20 years ago in 1987.
Construction on this historic site is expected to extend through 2008. Total cost of the project is estimated at $2,000,000 with additional funding from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs and private donations.
Mauna‘ala Royal Mausoleum, located on Nu‘uanu Avenue on O‘ahu, is the only designated mausoleum for Hawaiian royalty. The property consists of eight structures, four of which hold the remains of Hawai‘i’s ali‘i and is the site for many cultural ceremonies to honor Hawaiian ancestors.
The Mausoleum is visited regularly by private, public and charter schools as a way to connect the younger generations to Hawai‘i’s history and is also a popular site among visitors and residents. The Department of Land and Natural Resources and its on-site curator maintain the three-and-a-half-acre grounds and provide information services and guided tours.
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For more information, contact:
Peter Young, 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
