Renovations get underway at Mauna Kea Recreation Area

Renovations are underway at Mauna Kea Recreation Area, according to the Hawaii County Department of Parks and Recreation. The department assumed management of the area from the state on Tuesday.

County plumbers, electricians, tree trimmers, ground crews and equipment operators started work Tuesday that will require closing parts of the park temporarily, according to the department.

The first improvements include lighting enhancements, removing dead trees that pose a fire hazard, fumigation, and installation of new picnic areas, according to the county. Upcoming renovations will include landscaping work, improving and reopening restrooms, improvements to cabins and paving parking areas.

Temporary restrooms will be provided while the construction work is occurring, according to the county. The public will be notified when Mauna Kea Recreation Area is reopened and camping reservations will be accepted for overnight use of the park’s cabins.

The Mauna Kea Recreation Area is located near mile marker 34 on the Daniel K. Inouye Highway. It offers access to rare plants and wildlife and hiking trails.