By ERIK GABALDON West Hawaii Today
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Mahukona Beach Park in North Kohala reopened Saturday after over two weeks of demolition work costing $278,000, county officials said.

The park reopened to the public with operating hours from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Saturday, according to the Department of Parks and Recreation.

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County officials said camping will continue to be suspended due to the absence of potable water, restrooms and showers.

Demolition work included the removal of the pavilion, facilities, plumbing, underground electrical, old grills, fire pits and waste.

The park temporarily closed Jan. 6 after the pavilion demolition began, prompted by safety concerns about hazardous materials used when it was first built and its “general state of despair” from over 80 years of use.

“The completion of this project is an important step forward for Mahukona Beach Park,” Mayor Kimo Alameda said in a statement. “We thank the public for its patience during this closure and look forward to continuing to work with the community on the future of the park.”

Running water is not available at the beach park until further notice, but there are portable restrooms. Officials advised bringing water for drinking, bathing, cooking and cleaning.

A reactivation date for running water and other camping needs was not immediately available.

More information can be found by contacting the county at parks_recreation@hawaiicounty.gov.