Over 100 volunteers came together Saturday to give Harold H. Higashihara Park a facelift.
The effort, organized by the Lions Club and Friends of Higashihara Park, replaced rotten wood, weather-proofed existing structures, repainted and cleaned up the 25-year-old Kamakana Playground so future keiki can continue to enjoy the gem.
“The only way to keep it up is with community help,” said Kimo Au Hoon, who was present when the playground was originally constructed in 1997.
Keiki who enjoyed the park as youngsters were also on hand as adults to make sure future generations will be able to enjoy its amenities.
“I hope I can bring my kids here one day,” said volunteer Caleb Kow, reminiscing about times spent there in his youth.
Coordinator Debbie Hedemann said Saturday’s efforts are just the start of a vision the Lion’s Club has for the county owned park.
“To see this community join together is what we need at this time … like what we did 25 years ago,” she said.
But the vision goes way beyond a facelift for the playground. Hedemann said plans are underway to create a skate park with a solar arena, an indigenous plant garden, resurfacing of the existing courts and an amphitheater that would host performances.
“We have the county’s blessing to do this, we are just for funds to come to us,” she said.
She estimates the vision build-out will cost $2.3 million.
Those wishing to donate to this 501 (c)(3) to make this dream a reality can contact Hedemann at (808) 938-1987 or Cobey Ackerman at (808) 938-5131.
For more information, visit the group’s Facebook page: Friends of Higashihara Park.
