(BIVN) – A “Passive Recreation” Wilderness State Park is being proposed in Hilo, and one local lawmaker is touting the idea as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity to expand access to nature, recreation, culture, and wellness for East Hawaiʻi.”
“This project is about creating a peaceful, restorative space for the people of Hilo,” said State House Representative Matthias Kusch (D, District 1), who recently announced a special community meeting on the subject. “A place where keiki, kūpuna, families, and pets can enjoy safe outdoor recreation while supporting mental, physical, cultural, and environmental health.”
According to the Representative:
The proposed park is envisioned as a natural, low-impact sanctuary, preserving the area’s open space— nearly 300 acres, while providing residents with safe, family-friendly recreation opportunities. The tax map key parcels include: 2-5-008-026, 2-5-008-027, 2-5-008-025 and 2-5-008-003.
The Representative says the upcoming community meeting will “provide the first public look at the project’s potential and long-term benefits”. The meeting notice stated:
Ideas to be considered at the meeting include:
Walking trails through natural landscapes
Bicycling paths
Leashed dog walking areas for pet-friendly recreation
Picnic pavilions for ʻohana gatherings
Any cultural sites preserved and options for cultural activities
A Safe Route to School corridor to improve daily student access
Create pedestrian connectivity between subdivisions for residents to walk or bike
Preservation and expansion of native flora, fauna, and habitat
Open space for quiet reflection and nature-based wellness
Proposed community benefits include:
Improved community wellness through walking, biking, and outdoor activity
Green, accessible recreation at no cost to families
Improved pedestrian safety for students and nearby residents
Decrease in local school traffic congestion
Environmental preservation and habitat protection
Enhanced quality of life through clean, quiet, open space
New gathering opportunities for neighborhood engagement and cultural activities
Rep. Kusch says the public meeting on the proposal will be held on Wednesday, December 17, at the Hilo High School Cafeteria from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Along with the discussion on the proposed park, Rep. Kusch will also provide other District 1 and East Hawaiʻi Legislative highlights, and hold a Q&A.