U.S. House OKs money
for isle beach, flood projects
The U.S. House has approved a bill that includes $450,000 for beach replenishment and a flood-control project in Hawaii.
The Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act includes $200,000 to allow the Army Corps of Engineers to continue investigation work for replenishment of Waikiki Beach.
Similar work at Kihei, Maui, would get $50,000. Meanwhile, $200,000 would go for flood control pre-construction engineering and design for Wailupe Stream on Oahu.
The Waikiki and Kihei projects are important to Hawaii's economy, U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie said in a news release issued Friday by his Washington office.
"Our beaches are a top draw for tourists from around the world, and we've got to maintain them in world-class condition," Abercrombie said. "With tourism generating so many jobs for Hawaii, this is a modest investment for enormous returns."
Abercrombie also said Wailupe Stream poses a flood hazard to Aina Haina under heavy storm conditions.
"This flood-control work is need to reduce the danger to life and property in the area," he said.