Gov. Linda Lingle has released $500,000 for a development plan to improve Hana Harbor's commercial pier, the governor's office said today.

The project is part of the state's six-year Harbors Modernization Plan.

"Hana Harbor serves as a vital link for area residents," Lingle said in a statement. "This development plan is the first step in identifying Hana's vision for its harbor and ensuring that the needs of the remote Hana community are met well into the future."

The development plan will consider improvements to the existing pier and infrastructure to best meet community needs. It will also incorporate conceptual site planning, environmental and cultural reviews, a traffic study and the identification of necessary development permits.