Video by David Corrigan | Voice of Stephanie Salazar

The new $3.9 million Pahoa Recycling and Transfer Station was dedicated and blessed on Thursday.

The solar-powered facility was given a grand welcome to the neighborhood. Puna councilman Fred Blas was pleased to see the new transfer station come to life.

“Its conveniant,” said Blas. “Its like a drive through McDonald’s. I think its one of the most beautiful facilities we have in the whole state, or even the country!”

Officials say the design of the facility will allow for future expansion as Puna continues to grow. It is also the first county transfer station with covered alcoves that allow residents to pull into covered areas to drop off recyclable materials and dispose of their trash.

The county says recycled concrete from construction demolition sites was used in both construction and the landscaping of the site. Recycled and shredded tires were also integrated into the landscape design, along with crushed, recycled glass.

This mural by artist Charlene Lofgreen was also an eye-catcher.

And what would a Pahoa blessing be without some custom tunes by Ernie Cruz?

The project was completed by Willocks Construction Corporation on time and on budget.