KAILUA-KONA — Kailua Bay remained closed to swimming activities Tuesday afternoon as work on a ruptured sewer line discovered Monday on Palani Road and Alii Drive continued.
Kamakahonu Beach to Hulihee Palace seaward out to 1,000 feet remains off limits until water samples collected Monday are tested, indicating normal bacteria levels. Civil Defense on Wednesday said the beach remained closed. People are advised not to fish in the area, as well.
The agency also noted results from the samples taken are expected later Wednesday.
The spill was discovered when a crack in the road in front of King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel started spewing water. The leak was quickly contained Monday.
County crews spent Tuesday digging up the road to find the pipe to assess the damage. That work continues Wednesday, according to the county. Traffic delays are expected in this area during repairs.
The 55-year-old, 6-inch cast iron pipe was found at 2 p.m. on Tuesday in the mauka lane of traffic, said Diane Noda, deputy director of Department of Environmental Management. After finding the line, crews worked to learn what caused the rupture.
“Contaminated water” signs and yellow tape were seen around the pier and at the hotel beach.
Kalei Villacorte, director of safety and security at the hotel, said it was recommended to their guests that they stay out of the water until test results come back.
“I don’t want anybody getting sick,” he said.
While closing the beach is an inconvenience, Villacorte said, hotel guests understand this was something out of their control.
Three people were sunbathing on the hotel beach Tuesday while county crews worked to find the damaged sewer line.
Libby Clarke and Taylah Freeman, of Australia, had been staying at the hotel for the past few days before yellow tape was put up across the beach shoreline suggested they stay out.
“We’re disappointed it’s closed but it’s not the worst thing,” Clarke said. “At least it’s sunny.”
As work continues in the area, officials say motorists should expect delays and alternative routes.