By DLNR

Pahoa, Hawaii – From
Monday, April 8 to Friday, April 12, 2013, the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) will close the entry road to MacKenzie State Park for road repairs and improvements.

While the roadway will be closed to vehicular traffic, walk-in access will be provided to park users during this period. The roadway repairs are part of ongoing improvements at the park that began early this year.

The project is expected to be completed by June 2013 or sooner as conditions allow. This park section will be open and appropriate safety measures will be implemented. Other improvements include a new composting comfort station and parking area near the camping sites and other park clean-up and repair work.

“We appreciate the patience and understanding of everyone using the park during this improvement project, which will enhance the park experience for the public and provides needed maintenance as part of proper stewardship of state lands,” said William J. Aila, Jr., DLNR chairperson.

The contractor is Kona Kau Construction Services and Supplies, and the project cost is approximately $700,000.

MacKenzie State Recreation Area, covering 13.1 acres, is located on Kalapana-Kapono Beach Road (Highway 137), 9 miles northeast of Kaimu. It is a low-cliffed, wild volcanic coastline with picnicking and tent camping in an ironwood grove and known for good shore fishing. An old Hawaiian coastal trail traverses the park. The park has restrooms, camping area, trash cans, but no water and is open daily during daylight hours. There is no entrance fee.