Kahaluu Park May Be Ready Next Month

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August is the magic word for the “hopefully soon-to-be-open” Kahaluu Regional Park.

“People have heard so many dates; we feel ‘by the end of August,’ ” said city parks director Les Chang. “We’re confident to open 100 percent of the park, but have a few problem places. Some areas are still being worked on, but we’re getting close.”

One challenge was bringing the turf up to standard for high-use play, he explained. “The area didn’t drain well. It’s very close to the saltwater table. (There was a) problem with rocks; the grass did not take sufficiently for any use. That was re-engineered. We feel very good now that that has been solved.”

Work began in 2000 on the new regional park, which has football, soccer and baseball fields, as well as a walking trail, parking area and comfort station. The park’s first official opening was scheduled for 2003.

Chang hopes officials can work soon with the community on a special opening ceremony at the park, which fronts Kamehameha Highway on Waihee Road.