The state has released $500,000 for planning and design work to restore and improve sections of Waikiki Beach and ensure that the beach continues to serve as a dynamic ecosystem that can buffer the effects of storm waves and high tides.

"Waikiki Beach is one of Hawai'i's most popular visitor attractions and a widely used recreational area for residents," Gov. Linda Lingle said in a press release announcing the release of the money. "It is important to restore the beach so that it lives up to the high expectations of residents and visitors today and in the future."

This project to improve sections of Waikiki Beach will be coordinated with beach improvement efforts by the hotel industry and with money provided by the Hawai'i Tourism Authority.

"It is impossible to over-emphasize the importance of Waikiki Beach to our visitor industry," said Rick Egged, president of the Waikiki Improvement Association. "The funds released by Gov. Lingle will help to keep erosion from destroying this tremendous natural resource."

The planning and design work is scheduled to begin this fall and be completed in spring 2010.