More than $46 million will be released for various capital improvement projects, identified by legislators, that invest in state infrastructure and facilities, Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced Thursday.
“Many of these projects are ‘shovel ready’ and will immediately energize our growing construction industry,” he said.
On the Big Island, $525,000 will go toward the design of the new Waikoloa Public Library and $300,000 will be used for planning the development of the new West Hawaii Veterans Center. The Waikoloa area doesn’t have a permanent library and the closest one is approximately 17 miles away. There is also no veterans center in West Hawaii and the nearest one is 100 miles away in Hilo.
Other projects of interest include improvements to the various library facilities and the hardening of hurricane shelters statewide. The state Public Library System will receive $3 million for the design and construction of improvements such as roof replacement, air conditioning replacement, elevator upgrades, painting and flooring. Two million dollars will be used for design and construction of improvements to harden various school facilities used as emergency shelters with hurricane-protective measures. The improvements include upgrading windows, doors, skylights and other building components that are vulnerable to high winds and flying debris. The project will also provide pet-friendly shelters.