MEDIA RELEASE

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has announced the release of more than $8.1 million for various Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) that protect and manage Hawaii’s watershed and water resources.

“These CIP funds support my administration’s commitment to being responsible stewards of the environment, while also furthering the creation of local jobs as part of a sustainable economy,” Abercrombie said.

The following priority projects were identified by members of the state Legislature, and funds were approved and released by Governor Abercrombie:

* $3,439,000 – Energy Conservation and Sustainable Design Improvements, statewide – Development and implementation of various energy conservation projects to maximize energy efficiency in public facilities, including the Liliuokalani, Keelikolani and Kinau Hale Buildings

* $2,000,000 – Waimea Transfer Ditch, Hawaii – Construction for improvements to the Waimea Transfer Ditch, the primary source of water for farmers in this area

* $1,400,000 – Upcountry Maui Watershed, Maui – Installation of a new pipeline system, including approximately 10 miles of high-density main distribution pipeline; more than 15 miles of lateral and sublateral pipelines; and pressure regulating devices, manholes and siphons on the upper slope of Kula

* $1,000,000 – Waimea Hydropower Plant, Hawaii Island – Installation of a hydropower plant in the irrigation system

* $300,000 – State Lower Hamakua Ditch Watershed, Hawaii Island – Repair of flumes, ditches, reservoirs and tunnels for the irrigation system, including removal of sediment in ditches, modification of intake structures and installation of new lateral distribution lines

* $57,000 – Waiahole Water System, Oahu – Planning and design for improvements

In addition, the governor released $250,000 for a grant to Papakolea Community Development Corporation, a nonprofit organization founded in 1999 to foster a sustainable community in the Hawaiian homestead of Papakolea on Hawaii Island.

The grant will be used toward installation of photovoltaic panels and other energy efficient projects for the Papakolea Community Park and Full Service Center.