Posted on: Thursday, September 2, 2004

State parks looking for businesses

Advertiser Staff

The state is accepting proposals to develop, operate and manage camping and related activities at various state parks.

"We're looking at new ways to provide improved recreational opportunities at our state parks," said Peter Young, chairman of the Department of Land and Natural Resources. "This includes exploring opportunities in which camping, cabin rentals and other services in selected areas will be provided by concessionaires."

For its first project, DLNR wants a private company to develop and operate public recreational facilities and programs

at O'ahu's Malaekahana State Recreation Area, including infrastructure improvements to both the Kalanai and Kahuku sections of the park.

Public meetings also have been held on the Big Island to discuss possible concession operations at Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area, likely to be the next site opened to proposals for concession operations.

Young said several state parks have concessionaires in place, including food and beach services, camping and cabin rentals and gift shops.

The request for qualifications/request for proposals package is available online at www.hawaii.gov/dlnr or by calling state parks property manager Jim Springer at 587-0296.