The state Judiciary’s appropriations bill, which includes $55 million to fund construction of the new Kona Judiciary Complex, passed final reading Tuesday in the Senate and House of Representatives.
The state Judiciary’s appropriations bill, which includes $55 million to fund construction of the new Kona Judiciary Complex, passed final reading Tuesday in the Senate and House of Representatives.
The bill will now be transmitted to Gov. David Ige for his review and consideration.
“The Legislature’s action will enable us to provide the people of West Hawaii with a secure courthouse, where they can access all court services in one convenient location,” said Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald.
Currently, court proceedings are held in three separate locations in Kona, in buildings not designed to serve as courtrooms. The use of those buildings as courtrooms has created security, logistical, and operational problems.
Groundbreaking on the complex is scheduled for fall 2016. The total cost of construction is $90 million. In addition to the $55 million approved Tuesday, $35 million was approved by the 2014 Legislature.