Centennial Park Waikīki - Feb. 2024

 

Status Report

By Rob Hale, Chair, Centennial Park Committee

February 16, 2024

The building permits for Phase 2 were obtained in February 2023 and with that milestone accomplished, we updated our budget. The revised budget showed that we needed to raise another $660,000 to complete the project. Well more than half of that amount has been raised in cash, pledges, grants, and in-kind donations, leaving us with $270,000 to go.

While the aim was to raise all of the money and then proceed, we have adjusted that approach due to the impact of the Maui fires on fundraising efforts. 

We have broken Phase 2 into four increments and have the resources for the first two. The increments are: 1) construction of the surrounding rock wall; 2) completion of the raised performance platform and installation of pedestal seating; 3) metal fence and gates; and finally 4) signage.

Construction of the rock wall began in early February and is expected to be completed by the end of March. The second increment is planned to start this summer. We are hopeful that increment three of the work can proceed by the end of the year. Signage will follow.

While the magnitude of this project has exceeded our expectations, both in cost and human capital, it is a win for our club and Rotary. We have been able to engage other Rotarians locally, nationally and internationally in the project.  We have engaged dozens of our members on the committee and in work parties. We have earned the respect and appreciation of the community. 

When I watch people using the park, I cannot help but think, I am glad we followed through on our commitment.