The first step of the demolition of the former Uncle Billy’s Hilo Bay Hotel is about to begin.
The first step of the demolition of the former Uncle Billy’s Hilo Bay Hotel is about to begin.
The state Department of Land and Natural Resources announced Monday that the Hilo-based Isemoto Contracting will start asbestos abatement work at the dilapidated former hotel next week.
Isemoto on Monday began mobilizing equipment to the site.
The removal of asbestos from the site is a necessary first step for the demolition of the building, in order to avoid spreading the carcinogenic material through the air. As asbestos is removed from certain parts of the structure, demolition can begin in those locations.
The property has been fenced off and monitored by officers from DLNR’s Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement since September. That period of monitoring ended Monday afternoon.
“We realize how long the greater Hawaii Island community, and folks in Hilo particularly, have waited for work to begin at Uncle Billy’s,” said DLNR Chair Dawn Chang in a statement Monday. “We appreciate everyone’s patience, as our primary concern has always been everyone’s health and safety. Making this building uninhabitable was key to realizing that goal.”
Both hazard abatement and demolition are scheduled to be completed by next November.
The future use of the property has not yet been determined.
Procurement, permitting and bidding requirements were expedited under an emergency proclamation issued by Gov. Josh Green.
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