Hawaiʻi County Acquires Kona Property to Preserve Shoreline Access
Hawaiʻi County Acquires Kona Property to Preserve Shoreline Access
The County of Hawaiʻi has completed the purchase of a shoreline parcel in North Kona to preserve ocean access and recreation.
The 15,372-square-foot site is located near the popular “Banyans” surfing spot and is one of the few non-developed coastal properties in the area along Aliʻi Drive. Known as Keakealaniwahine, the property was previously slated for development of a five-story condominium.
“In an area that already has seen plenty of shoreline development, this purchase really makes a difference,” said Mayor Kimo Alameda. “This site preserves critical ocean access, and I was pleased to join lineal descendants in blessing this special place.”
The $2.1 million purchase occurred through the County’s Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Commission (PONC) program. To learn more about Keakealaniwahine, view the 2020 PONC Report.
Funding for PONC is supported by an annual 2% contribution from the County’s property tax revenues.
Under PONC, the County may acquire properties to preserve historically or culturally important sites, protect natural resources, and provide opportunities for public outdoor recreation and education, including access to beaches and mountains.
Properties are nominated each year by the public, reviewed and ranked by the Commission, and recommended by the Mayor. Purchases require a willing seller and authorization by the County Council.
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