Additional pavilions are in the works for Wailoa River State Recreation Area.
Department of Land and Natural Resources planners say the estimated construction cost is $3.9 million to add five new pavilions and repair and update four existing ones. One of the new additions will include a 400-foot gazebo for wedding ceremonies near the “big luau pavilion.”
All the structures will be built to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
The park along the Wailoa River in Hilo draws family gatherings, fishing enthusiasts and boaters.
If current plans progress, DLNR officials said the project will be sent out for bids in June 2018. Construction is expected to take about a year.
Plans also call for parking lot repairs and replacement, parking stripes and ADA-compliant parking spaces.
“During construction, the park should remain open, with only the areas the contractor is working on being closed,” according to DLNR.
“Schedule for construction won’t be known until after the contractor is selected.”
Work will include construction of a 12-foot-wide paved path.
At the existing pavilions, workers will remove and replace lighting, stabilize the structures, coat floors with epoxy, construct new barbecue pits and repair bathrooms.
In addition, all three arched bridges will be refurbished and railings repainted, and the water fountain will be replaced.
At the boat ramp, the parking area will be restriped and repaved “to provide a smooth surface and include properly sized boat trailer stalls and accessible parking.”
The DLNR has applied for a pollution discharge permit, which is needed because during construction, surface areas might be exposed and subject to runoff during rainfalls, according to the state Department of Health.
The permit is required because that runoff will drain into Waiakea Pond and the Wailoa River.
The DLNR noted in its permit request that the goal is “for these waters to remain in their natural state as nearly as possible with an absolute minimum of pollution from any human-caused source or action. To the extent possible, the wilderness character of these areas shall be protected.”
To check on availability to reserve a pavilion at Wailoa River State Recreation Area, call 961-9540.
Email Jeff Hansel at jhansel@hawaiitribune-herald.com.
