A pair of popular North Kona beach parks will close starting Oct. 31 for up to eight months for an array of improvements.
Laaloa Beach Park will be closed in its entirety as work to implement the archaeological preservation plan is pursued. The project entails establishing park features that will protect and enhance the cultural sites through appropriately placed rock walls, established trails and walkways, landscaping, and informational signage.
Magic Sands Beach Park will be closed at its southern end to allow for the demolition of the existing comfort station and the construction of its replacement. The project will also provide an accessible route tie-in to Alii Drive, accessible showers, picnic tables, and parking stalls, upgrading existing utility connections and addressing other long-deferred maintenance needs.
The sand beach portion of the park will remain open during the work with lifeguards stationed to oversee ocean activities.
The Department of Parks and Recreation will hold a community meeting at 5:30 p.m. Thursday at Laaloa Beach Park parking lot to present the project in greater detail and to address any questions or concerns.
Access to the beach at Magic Sands will be via the park’s north end. No access to or via the park’s south end which will be an active construction area. Temporary portable restroom units will be placed adjacent to the beach and at the parking area.
Parking for beach users will continue to be available at the county’s Kipapa Park area and as allowed on the shoulders of Alii Drive.
Lineal descendants, cultural descendants, cultural practitioners, and other individuals with a vested interest in accessing the cultural sites at Laaloa Beach Park during this period of construction activity must contact the Department of Parks and Recreation to coordinate safe access.
“The department apologizes for any inconveniences endured and thanks the public for their patience and understanding during this temporary but necessary closure as we enhance these valued recreational and cultural resources and provide equal access to our public parks,” the county said in a prepared statement.
For more information, call the Department of Parks and Recreation at (808) 961-8311.