What's Happening?
Kailua Park in Kona, often referred to as “Old A’s,” has commenced a significant construction project aimed at upgrading its facilities. The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Mayor Kimo Alameda, the Department of Parks and Recreation, and County
Council members. The park has been in need of improvements for several years, particularly regarding its restroom facilities, one of which was destroyed by fire in 2023 and another closed due to safety concerns. The old terminal building, which has been structurally deteriorated for years, is also slated for demolition. The current phase of the project includes the construction of two new restrooms with showers at the beach park, a new restroom near the Makae‘o Events Pavilion, and a new concession building with an adjacent restroom near the ballfield. Additionally, the old terminal building will be demolished to make way for a new parking lot system. Goodfellow Sun JV is the construction contractor, with project completion anticipated in early 2028.
Why It's Important?
This extensive upgrade to Kailua Park is significant for the local community, as it addresses long-standing issues with public amenities and aims to enhance the quality of life for residents. Mayor Kimo Alameda emphasized that these improvements represent an investment in the community's health, well-being, and overall quality of life. The park, a central gathering place, will become more welcoming and enjoyable once the renovations are complete. The addition of new restrooms, showers, and a concession building will directly benefit park users, including those utilizing the beach, event pavilion, and ballfields. The demolition of the dilapidated terminal building and the creation of a new parking system will also improve the park's functionality and aesthetic appeal, making it more accessible and user-friendly for all visitors.
What's Next?
Following the current phase of construction, which is expected to conclude in early 2028, additional upgrades are planned for Kailua Park. These include repairs to Kekuaokalani Gymnasium, which sustained damage during the Kona low storms in March 2026. A project to install a new gym floor system and new bleachers is tentatively scheduled to begin in January. Furthermore, a separate project to replace the gym’s roof, enhance its exterior resilience against future storms, and improve air circulation will be put out to bid this month. The county is also working on the demolition of the former DMV building at the end of Kuakini Highway, which has been vacant for several years. These subsequent projects indicate a comprehensive effort to revitalize and modernize the entire Kailua Park complex over the next few years.
Beyond the Headlines
The revitalization of Kailua Park extends beyond mere infrastructure improvements; it reflects a broader commitment to public spaces and community well-being. The long-awaited upgrades address not only functional deficiencies but also contribute to the social fabric of Kona by providing modern, safe, and accessible recreational facilities. The investment in hardening the gymnasium against future storms highlights a proactive approach to climate resilience, acknowledging the increasing frequency and intensity of weather events. This multi-faceted development project could serve as a model for other communities facing similar challenges with aging public infrastructure, demonstrating the importance of sustained investment in communal assets. The transformation of Kailua Park is poised to foster greater community engagement and support local recreational activities for years to come.
