119 Pakele Lane in the Keaukaha area of Hilo

(BIVN) – Hawai‘i Community College reached an important milestone Thursday as it dedicated a 1,818 sq. ft. home in Keaukaha, built by students in five Hawai‘i CC programs.

It was the 50th home to be dedicated since Hawai‘i CC built the first model home in 1966.

After a ceremony, the keys were handed over to the new homeowner, Luana Dang, and her family.

“It’s the only project of its kind in the state and perhaps the only of its kind in the country,” stated a Hawai‘i CC media release. “Students in the architectural engineering and CAD program design the home; diesel mechanics students maintain heavy equipment; carpentry students build the home; electrical Installation and maintenance students install the wiring; and agriculture students landscape the property. Hawaiian studies students help conduct the blessing ceremony.”

The 50th home includes a solar water heater system, Energy Star qualified appliances, Energy Star metal roofing and radiant barrier, native plant landscaping and more. It cost about $188,000.

The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is an important partner in the project, Hawai‘i CC says, acting as the developer, while the college provides the skilled labor at no cost, resulting in an affordable home for a local family.

“Hawai‘i Community College is No Ka Oi,” said Luana Dang in a video news release. “I hope my grandchildren come here.”

Photo of first Hawai‘i CC class to build model home in 1966.