R. M. Towill Corporation is currently
preparing the 2020 Master Plan and Environmental Impact Statement for the Kokee and Waimea
Canyon State Parks on Kauai. The two parks possess extraordinary natural and cultural
resources, and are thus prized as "flagship" parks of the Hawaii State Park
System.
Kokee and Waimea Canyon State Parks are under the jurisdiction of the
Division of State Parks of the Department of Land and Natural Resources. The Parks occupy
6,211 acres of land on the west side of the island of Kauai. They are used extensively by
hikers, sightseers, campers, hunters, fisherman, and naturalists who are drawn to the rich
natural environment and spectacular scenic resources. In addition, the parks are home to
part-time tenants who occupy long-term recreational lease cabins.
The master planning process involves an assessment of the natural,
cultural, historic, scenic, and recreational resources in terms of their condition, use
limits, and opportunities for protection, management, development, restoration, and
interpretation. Analysis also includes an assessment of infrastructure and utility needs
and revenue generation opportunities to support existing and proposed program
improvements.
RMTC planners are conducting a community outreach and educational
initiative that included:
Open-house sessions for community leaders;
Public information meetings;
Interviews with key interest groups and park stakeholders; and,
Planning task force meetings and presentations.
Planning continues with input from the
community, area businesses, park users groups, and government agencies. |
