Blessing held for Hanalei Water Line Improvements Project

GARDEN ISLAND NEWS — The Department of Water (DOW) and contractor Koga Engineering and Construction Inc. held a blessing ceremony on Monday for the Hanalei Water Line Improvements Project. This $3.1 million project will upgrade the water main infrastructure to meet current water system standards, including existing fire flow requirements.

“The water line that currently serves Weke Road is over 100 years old,” said DOW’s Manager and Chief Engineer Joe Tait. “I am pleased that we are finally able to upgrade it in order to better serve our customers in the area.”

The Hanalei Water Line Improvements Project will upgrade 3,000 feet of water lines from the current 2- to 2.5-inch diameter to 8-inch and 12-inch diameters. This increase in pipe diameter will help with the flow of water for fire suppression.

Additionally, fire hydrants will be installed, water service laterals and connections to residents, and affected roads will be repaved. The Department of Public Works has also been coordinating with DOW on resurfacing other roads within Hanalei.

Monday’s blessing was officiated by the Rev. Dr. Mark Poppen. It included Tait, Board of Water Supply Chair Tom Shigemoto, Koga Engineering and Construction Inc. Project Manager Garret Ichimura, and Kaua’i County Council Chairman Mel Rapozo.

The project is estimated to be completed by the end of this year.