A stalled project to demolish Hilo International Airport’s old loading ramp is back on track after $4.5 million in capital improvement funds were released in mid-April by Governor David Ige.
The money will be used to demolish existing buildings to make way for 11 one-acre leasehold lots in the so-called “west ramp” in the old airport area.
“I am thrilled that Governor Ige is continuing with plans to fund Hilo International Airport,” said Senator Lorraine Inouye, a Democrat whose district encompasses part of Hilo, as well as Hamakua, Kohala, Waimea, Waikoloa and Kona. “Funding the construction costs for the west ramp demolition and rental lots will significantly improve Hilo International Airport as it continues its renovations.
“Hilo International Airport is a vital economic hub for the city of Hilo and the outlying areas of Hamakua, Puna and Ka’u.”
The site is the former location of the airport’s loading ramp and was once the location of Federal Express, Aloha Air Cargo and Hawaiian Airlines Cargo, according to state Department of Transportation spokesman Jai Cunningham .
Prior to its use for cargo and general aviation operations, the west ramp was used for passenger operations until the mid-1970s.
“The project is already under construction, but has encountered contaminated materials that have delayed project completion,” Cunningham said. “The $4.5 million is to temporarily limit contaminated materials and pay for extended contractor overhead.
“A separate project will remove the contaminated materials and complete the subdivision of the lots.”
The lots will be leased to private companies for aviation-related activities, according to Cunningham. He was unable to provide information on projected income, but added that there is a waiting list for potential tenants, “so interest is high”.
In addition, construction includes the removal of the existing water main and branch connections, which will be replaced with newer structures. The existing fence in the operational area of the airport will also be removed to make way for a new fence with gate.
The project was previously expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2021. Completion is now scheduled for June, with an estimated total cost of $10.628 million.
