Waikiki Sand Replenishment Bills Signed

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell yesterday signed two bills into law establishing a special improvement district that will receive funding from the visitor industry to help maintain Waikiki Beach.

“Waikiki is known around the world for its legendary sun, surf, and sand. With Bills 81 and 82, the visitor industry has stepped up to help keep iconic Waikiki Beach sandy, clean, and pristine for years to come,” said Mayor Caldwell.

Councilmember Trevor Ozawa, State of Hawai‘i Department of Land and Natural Resources Deputy Director Kekoa Kaluhiwa, Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation Deputy Director Jeanne Ishikawa, Honolulu Office of Economic Development Executive Director Nicole Velasco, Waikiki Improvement Association President Rick Egged, and Waikiki hotel and business representatives joined Mayor Caldwell at the signing ceremony.

Mayor Caldwell signed the bills at the Royal Hawaiian Groin, which will be repaired as one of the first projects using the new special fund. The Waikiki Beach Special Improvement District has a budget of $605,000 for its first fiscal year with funding coming from businesses located within the District.

• Bill 81 (2014) – Relating to special improvement districts, permits a special district to be established in order to supplement the costs of constructing shoreline improvement, restoration and protection projects;
• Bill 82 (2014) CD2, FD1 – Relating to the establishment of the Waikiki Beach Special Improvements District No. 3, creates the new district, which extends from the Ala Wai Canal/Ala Wai Boat Harbor and Kapahulu Avenue to Kalakaua Avenue and seaward to include the Kapahulu Groin.

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