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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Tuesday, August 23, 2005

Concessions could work at selected parks

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There's every reason to think the plan for lunch wagons at state parks could be refined so it will work for everyone.

Mobile food concessions are in place at some parks, and the state is considering allowing access at others. Some locations make sense as sites for one or two kiosks. Diamond Head State Monument, for example, has a parking lot that is removed from the most scenic spots farther along the trail, enabling visitors to buy refreshments without disrupting anyone's enjoyment of the spectacular view.

By contrast, Nu'uanu Pali State Wayside is less than ideal because of the limited space for concessions and parking. It's designed more for brief stops than extended visits and meals.

Some residents complain that the expanded concessions would detract from the solemnity at some locations, and they're right. Parks officials should judiciously winnow the list and choose locations where food concessions would be most helpful, such as after a long hike. And the idea of requiring concessionaires to help with restroom facilities is a good one: Businesses should shoulder some maintenance tasks.

Why not add another rule: New concessions could be limited to those that serve Isle produce? This way, a lunch kiosk could become the pause that not only refreshes, but supports local farms.