Gov. Linda Lingle has released $1,025,000 for the construction of pier and harbor improvements at the Kalaupapa Harbor facility on Moloka'i.

This project includes structural repairs to the concrete pier, the replacement of bollards, which are the heavy posts used to secure lines, and the installation of a new mooring winch with a protective shelter. The Kalaupapa Harbor was built in 1967 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and last underwent major repairs in 1991.

Kalaupapa Harbor is the only receiving point for twice-annual shipments to Kalaupapa of supplies such as gasoline, heavy equipment, motor vehicles and general merchandise. The Kalaupapa community includes 46 employees from the state Department of Health, 27 residents, 40 National Park Service employees and one employee from the Department of Transportation.

"Kalaupapa relies on its harbor for large deliveries and other necessities," Lingle said. "This project will ensure the safety of barge operators and maintain a critical supply line for residents and visitors to this important cultural and historic landmark."

The total project cost is estimated to be $1,112,240, which includes $87,240 in unused money from a previous project.

Bidding for this project is scheduled to begin in June. On-site construction is estimated to begin in spring 2009 – following the rough ocean months of October through March – and be completed in September 2009.

In June 2007, Lingle released $595,000 for emergency repairs to the harbor's bulkhead wall, which had deteriorated due to lengthy exposure to winter waves. That project was successfully completed in September 2007.