Honolulu fence to deter homeless camps blocks fire hydrant

HONOLULU — A new fence along the Kapalama Canal in Honolulu designed to deter homeless encampments could also cause problems for firefighters.

Hawaii News Now reports that the chain link fence is blocking a fire hydrant, causing concern among nearby businesses.

Department of Facility Maintenance Director Ross Sasamura says the contractor, PIER Construction, will add an opening in the fence before the project is finished.

PIER began installing the fence two weeks ago to keep homeless people from camping along the waterway.

Sasamura says the Honolulu Fire Department is aware of the problem and can still reach the hydrant if necessary.