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Al. 393 .H32 H34 1981 Gui&fines& Standw-ds forPublicAccess to the Shoreline County of Hawaii SHORELINE PUBLICACCESS GUIDELINES AND STANDARDS FOR PUBLIC ACCESS TO THE SHORELINE Prepared for: County of Hawaii Planning Department April 1981 Prepared by: A joint-venture of HIROSHI KASAMOTO, INC. and P. YOSHIMURA, INC. THE KIKUCHI GROUP Design /Graphics /Photography A TOUCH OF ALOHA Typesetting /Printing The preparation of this report was financed in part by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, administered by the Office of Coastal Zone Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, United States Department of Commerce. 1 =perty Of NOAA Coas Services Center Library 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER PAGE I INTRODUCTION 5 2 DEFINITIONS 7 3 STATEMENT OF PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF WORK, 9 PHASEII 4 SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, PHASE I INVENTORY 11 - 14 5 GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES 16 - 17 6 CRITERIA AND GUIDELINES FOR THE LOCATION AND DISTRIBUTION OF PUBLIC SHORELINE ACCESS 19 - 24 7 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE 27 - 40 GUIDELINES 8 DISTRICT PROFILES 43 - 60 BIBLIOGRAPHY AND REFERENCES 62 3 0-2, ow, 0. 14 nrr 1( Tr CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION In response to the national need for The current phase involves the the protection and effective development development of guidelines and standards of coastal resources, the Federal Coastal for the identification of areas where Zone Management (CZM) Act was enacted additional public accesses are partic- by Congress in 1972. This act provided ularly necessary and/or desirable and assistance and encouragement to partici- for the design of public access systems. pating coastal states to develop and im- plement localized management programs The final phase of the County's for their coastal zones. shoreline access program will result in the development of a comprehensive The Hawaii Coastal Zone Manage- management plan, incorporating the ment Program, approved in 1978 by the information provided under the first two Federal Office of Coastal Zone Manage- phases as well as addressing specific ment, provides the basis for the State legal questions regarding public access and the Counties to implement the over- systems, and establishing specific acqui- all intent of the national act. One of sition and Capital Improvement Expendi- the primary goals of the State and Fed- ture priorities. eral CZM Program is to make coastal recreational opportunities accessible to The completion of this phase will the public, and to assure that adequate provide the County of Hawaii with an public access is provided to beaches, enforceable, implementable public recreation areas and natural reserves shoreline access program for the entire along the shoreline. island. Consequently, to assure that ad- equate public access is provided in accordance with the legislative intent, the.Planning Department, under the auspices of the HCZMP, initiated a pub- lic shoreline access program for the County in 1978. The first phase of this program which was completed in September of 1979, involved the inventorying of existing public accesses to and along the shoreline, an inventory of the shore- line areas and nearshore waters of major recreational uses, and areas of major environmental aesthetic, and ecological importance. This inventory provides the baseline information in understand- ing current coastal onditions, accessi- bility, and resourcZs. 5 -1 ;_4 7 7 pl-.1 tl ZA jr- 45, CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS Certain terminology is used through- a loop. Looping provides variety out the nation in trail guides and books. for the user: it allows the user To facilitate common understanding of to return to the trailhead with- frequently used terms, the following out retracing his steps. definitions are offered: 7. Right-of-way: The area estab- lished by legal description or 1. Buffer or Protection Zone: The other means which delineates trail buffer zone is included the trail width as it traverses within the corridor which is over land. It can be establish- basically used to insulate the ed as a legal property entityor access from activities detrimen- as an easement through tal to the user's experience on someone's land. the trail. 8. Trail: This term describes the 2. Corridor: The trail corridor is last leg of access to or along the "zone of trail influence." the shoreline. Travel over a It is the total width, including trail is usually by walking, the right-of-way and all the cycling, or horseback riding. lands which make up the environ- 9. Trail system: Refers to the use ment of the trail as viewed by of the different formats within , the user. The corridor usually a given area. It provides for an takes into consideration the in- entire system of trails for differ- tent of establishing the access, ent expectations. whether it be for scenic, recre- 10. Trailhead: The start of the ation, or other purposes. last leg of access to or along 3. Destination: The shoreline with the shoreline; usually located its distinctive features. at a public roadside where park- 4. Horseshoe: A half-loop trail ing is available or at the inter- along a road. Usually the use section of a trail to and along can start at one end of a horse- the shoreline. shoe as access to the shoreline 11. Treadway: The surface upon and end at another trailhead which the user makes direct along the road. contact with the earth as he 5. Line: The simplest and most uses the trail. common format, it connects two 12. Trunk line: A main long-distance points from the roadside trail- trail on public land. For example, head to the destination. the ancient Hawaiian trail around 6. Loop: A trail in the shape of the island can be called the trunk line trail. 7 ow T 777 V Rl CHAPTER 3 STATEMENT OF PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF WORK, PHASE 11 The purpose of the Phase 11 study lines and standards shall include is a continuation of the County's objec- but not be limited to provisions tive of providing a Comprehensive Plan for landscaping; signage; coor- for Public Shoreline Access for the dination with other shoreline Island of Hawaii. The findings made in access systems; and other the Phase I Inventory portion of that on-site and off-site improvements. study will be used in developing guide- Furthermore, said guidelines lines and standards for providing pub- and standards shall take into lic shoreline access. consideration the character of the general area, existing and More specifically, the scope of work potential uses, and other appli- invol ved in Phase I I is: cable criteria. 1. Identify and designate shore- 3. Develop and implement a program line areas where public access for public participation in the is particularly necessary and preliminary identification of desirable; including supporting shoreline areas where public rationale, assumptions, data access is necessary and desirable, and sources. Criteria for any and in the development of the guidelines and/or standards above-identified guidelines and developed to achieve the above standards. In addition, public shall include, but not be limit- involvement and awareness shall ed to analysis of potential be emphasized in the selection access area categories (urban, of a uniform logo/signage rural, open, resort, etc.) ; program for the designation of shoreline conditions, character- public shoreline access rights- istics, or constraints; environ- of-way and public shoreline areas. mental, aesthetic and 'ecological considerations; recreational potential (s) ; land tenure or ownership patterns; inventories of historic or prehistoric acces- 71 ses including traditional Hawaiian trails; and physical relationships from or between other existing or proposed shoreline access areas. 2. Develop guidelines and standards 49 4: for the design and construction requirements for identified pub- lic access systems. Said guide- 9 0 L smell tow V!L.- !!"777- r77W gp -7 'Im CHAPTER 4 SUMMARY OF PHASE I FINDINGS The Inventory of Public Shoreline and description of accessibility. In the Access, County of Hawaii, provides a delineation of all public lands along the comprehensive overview of the physical shoreline, it was discovered that approx- resources of the 360+ miles of the imately 37 percent of the shoreline is in Island's shoreline areas. More specifi- public lands. Public lands are lands cally, this study includes an inventory under Federal, State, Hawaiian Homes of the shoreline areas and nearshore and County jurisdiction. waters of major recreational uses, and areas of major environmental, aesthetic The study further identifies shore-' and ecological importance. line conditions by the height of adjoin- ing lands, by types of beaches, and This inventory identifies public by areas of environmental, ecological, accesses by three categories: 1) improv- or scenic importance. Approximately ed roads capable of transporting two- 35 percent of the shoreline is in high wheel drive vehicles to the shoreline; cliffs, about 28 percent is lands of 2) unimproved public roads which are medium height, and 37 percent in low- either gravel roads or paper roads as lying shores. shown in tax n, aps as public rights-of- way; and 3) pathways and trails includ- ing ancient trails, easements, and walk- ways designated for public use to reach the shoreline. An important facet of this study included a survey of ancient Hawaiian trails which are still physically possible to be located along the shoreline. Al- though it is surmised that the ancient Hawaiian trails along the shoreline are public rights-of-way, only those seg- ments which traverse through govern- ment land or are part of tax maps or old survey maps as public trails have been included. Major areas of recreational and environmental importance along the shoreline have also been identified in this study. Such identification includes all existing and proposed public parks along the shoreline by their major usage CHAPTER 4 SUMMARY OF PHASE I FINDINGS (cont.) SUMMARY OF FINDINGS Table 1: CONDITION OF SHORELINE ISLAND OF HAWAII (in Miles and Percent of Total) 1 2 3 ti2t@ Medium Low Total West Hawaii 20.4 52.1 74.5 147 East Hawaii 104.6 49.8 59.1 213.5 Total Island 125.0 101.9 133.6 360.5 Percent (%) 35% 28% 37% 100% 1) Over 20-foot high sea cliffs 2) *Between 5 to 20-foot high cliffs 3) Low-lying area below 5 feet in land and height along shoreline Table 2: CONDITION OF LOW-LYING SHORELINE ISLAND OF HAWAII (in Miles) West Hawaii East Hawaii Total- Sandy 1 - 2 11.9 4.2 16.1 Pebbles/Coral (ililili) 7.4 0.5 7.9 Boulders/Others (ala) 55.2 54.4 109.6 Total 74.5 59.1 133.6 1) Beach are predominantly in sand. Can be either white, green or black sand. 2) Low-lying area predominantly in pebbles or coral. Table 3: PUBLIC LANDS ALONG SHORELINE ISLAND OF HAWAII (in Miles and Percent of Total) Total Federal State HH County Totals Percent Shoreline (1) (2) (3) (4) Public M West Hawaii 147.0 3.1 42.8 1.0 1.1 48.0 33% East Hawaii 213.5 31.7 36.7 9.9 7.8 86.1 40% Total Island 360.5 34.8 79.5 10.9. 8.9 134.1 36% 1) Federal land, including all National Park and lighthouse sites along shoreline. 2) State land, including those encumbered by private leases. 3) Hawaiian Homes land. 4) County land, including those under Executive Order from State or leased from private land owners. 12 CHAPTER 4 SUMMARY OF PHASE I FINDINGS (cont.) Table 4: INVENTORY OF PUBLIC ACCESS TO SHORELINE ISLAND OF HAWAII (By Points at Shoreline)l I mproved Unimproved Trails/Paths/ Total Roads Roads Easements West Hawaii 24 18 40 82 East Hawaii 32 16 19 67 Total 56 34 59 149 1) Includes ancient mauka-makai trails which are found in old survey or U.S.G.S. maps or tax maps. Table 5: DISTRIBUTION OF ACCESS TO SHORELINE ISLAND OF HAWAII (in Ratio of Number of Miles for Each Access Point)* Improved Unimproved Trails/Paths/ Total Roads Roads Easements West Hawaii 6:1 8:1 4:1 2:1 East Hawaii 7:1 13:1 11:1 3:1 Total 6:1 11:1 6:1 2.4:1 *Based on total mileage divided by access points to give ratio of number of miles to each access point. Table 6: INVENTORY OF PUBLIC ACCESS ALONG SHORELINE ISLAND OF HAWAII (In Miles) Improved Unimproved Trails/Paths/ Total Roads Roads Easements West Hawaii 21.8 2.9 74.8 99.5 East Hawaii 56.9 6.4 37.8 101.1 Total 78.7 9.3 112.6 200.6 1) Inventory of all public access along the shoreline which are within 1/4 miles from the shore. 2) Includes ancient trails as found on old survey and U.S.G.S. maps, over privately-owned lands. 13 CHAPTER 4 SUMMARY OF PHASE I FINDINGS (cont.) Table 7: DISTRICT SUMMARIES Access Along Shoreline Length of Point Access (within 1/4 miles of Public Lands Fronting Shoreline to Shoreline shoreline) Shoreline District (in miles) (No.of Access) (Length in miles) (Length in miles) Puna 62.1 9 2 5 21.5 2.6 10.2 15.9 9.7 0.2 1.6 S. Hilo 32.4 18 8 7 20.5 2.7 0.2 5.4 3.1 5.4 N. Hilo 16.0 1 13.9 2.2 0.1 4.3 0.2 Hamakua 34.3 2 1 6.7 2.3 9.9 0.1 N. Kohala 36.2 5 1 4 1.5 3.8 1.5 0.6 5.9 0.5 S. Kohala 17.9 6 16 9 8.0 13.6 0.4 5.5 0.8 0.6 N. Kona' 45.6 7 1 16 5.9 21.4 0.4 17.3 0.3, S. Kona 40.3 5 6 5.6 23.1 1.6 6.7 0.2 Kau 75.7 5 4 11 1.8 37.1 15.6 14.8 6.7 0.5 Tota I s 360.5 56 34 59 78,7 9.3 112.6 34.8 79.5 10.9 8.9 C: -q -4 z -n Ln 0 0 M r+ 0 > (D 0 0 (A n < < a) (D 0 T M 0 0 IV a < 0) (1 < U) M r+ ti) :r CL :r "n 0 14 I To CHAPTER 5 GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES GOALS To provide the maximum feasible 0 Provide for protection and amount of public shoreline access. maintenance of valuable archae- ological sites in the public OBJECTIVE access area or nearby. To ensure adequate public access Continue to seek resolution to is provided, by dedication and other legal issues affecting public means, where such access is found to access including Native be necessary or desirable and appro- Hawaiian Rights. priate. OBJECTIVE POLICIES 0 To design and construct public 0 Take advantage of recreational shoreline access systems to capabilities such as fishing, maximize convenience to users sight-seeing or picnicking while taking into consideration available on the shoreline. the general character of the areas, existing and future land 0 The maximum feasible access uses, and environmental con- to and along 'the shoreline straints. should be provided as an inte- gral part of new development POLICIES along or the redevelopment of shorefront areas, except in 0 The public access system shall cases where public access is provide for the safe, efficient clearly inconsistent with the and pleasant movement of project because of public vehicles and people. safety considerations,' signifi- 0 The necessity of public access cant use conflicts, or environ- should be considered early in mental constraints. any project's design program 0 Provide appropriate controls so that it becomes an essential for any access to or into areas and integral part of the with fragile ecosystems. development. (Consult appropriate agencies 0 Provide basic public amenities to determine location and type such as benches, trash con- of access, if any). tainers, restrooms, etc. where 0 Access to sensitive areas shall appropriate. consider the natural character 0 Design public access so that and protection of the natural the user has no doubt that it resources of the area. is a public area. - Identification, preservation, 0 Public accessways and systems restoration and use of historic should be sited and designed to trails should be encouraged. 16 CHAPTER 5 GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICIES (cont.) minimize alteration.of natural existing and future public -landforms, conform to existing shoreline access systems. contours, where possible, and be compatible with the character POLICIES of their setting. 0 Seek resolution of both legal 0 The public.access system shall and administrative question/ be integrated at all levels of problem with respect to the government and with private maintenance and liability of interests. 0 public accesses. 0 Link public access with other Provide for easy site mainte- public streets, parks, and nance with durable materials, open space along the shorefront drought resistant and saline areas. tolerant plant materials and Coordinate the planning of similar measures. 0 public access with other involved Provide public parking,where agencies. appropriate,to serve the site but keep parking areas small, OBJECTIVE away from the ocean, and adequately screened. 0 To encourage public awareness, � A variety of modes of access use and responsibility of the shall be utilized to serve the shoreline access resource diverse needs, land uses, available to the general public. shoreline conditions, climate. POLICIES � Private and'public parking, restrooms and other amenities Make maps or literature available shall be incorporated as part on public access. 0 of the system. Provide educational opportuni- Clearly delineate the public ties for the user through identi- access areas by the use of fication of unique natural signs, planting, fences, or features or historic sites. elevational changes where 0 private or.conflicting uses Publicize safety instructions may exist. or information about hazardous segments of trails. OBJECTIVE 0 Provide for observation, 0 interpretation, research and To provide continuity and education opportunities, where coordination in the administra- appropriate. tion and implementation of 17 8 L '77 ntq,777 .. . . . .... ........ . . ..... ......... ..... . tw, ""ZZ eff, im CHAPTER 6 CRITERIA AND GUIDELINES FOR THE LOCATION AND DISTRIBUTION OF PUBLIC SHORELINE ACCESS In considering the necessity or Shoreline destination areas are desirability, the appropriateness, and generally characterized as: ultimately, the design of shoreline a. Areas used for recreation accessways, the interrelationship of three factors must be considered. 1) Beach and shoreline parks These factors are 1) the destination featuring water and passive of the accessway or the reason to get recreational activities to or along the shoreline; 2) the land 2) Marinas uses across which the accessway must 3) Surfing sites traverse, and 3) the natural resources 4)'Camping sites in the general area. 5) Hiking trails for sightseeing, education, exercise, photo- The general criteria are intended graphy, etc. to provide overall guidance as to the b. Areas used as source of food necessity or desirability and appro- priateness of public accessways. The Fishing, diving, gathering following guidelines provide more shellfish, limu, etc. detailed specification for the location, c. Areas with special features distribution and design of accessways for particular access situation(s) . Historic sites, natural beauty These criteria and guidelines represent sites, primitive areas, scenic a comprehensive approach to coastal areas. access which should be applied in a d. Environmentally and ecologically flexible manner to provide maximum sensitive areas coastal access opportunities. Wi Idlife reserve /habitats, wet- CRITERIA lands, marine life conservation A. The Destination districts, natural area reserve, etc. The existence of a destination is Land Uses the reason and purpose the public wants access to and along the shoreline. The Shoreline land uses have significant- destination can range from a limited, ly affected public access. Uses that confined area to a very extensive one. house or serve large numbers of people,, A combination of shoreline conditions and such as residences, commercial and characteristics at the destination-- commercial /recreational uses, schools, sandy beaches, wave conditions for surf- and offices create a need for nearby ing, good weather, source of food, educa- public access to the shoreline. Land tion or nature appreciation and other uses that may present hazards to the ammenities-- attracts the public to the public, such as some water-related shoreline and determines the demand industries, are generally suitable for for public access. only limited public access. In any event, 19 CHAPTER 6 CRITERIA AND GUIDELINES FOR THE LOCATION AND DISTRIBUTION OF PUBLIC SHORELINE ACCESS (cont.) the access ways and related improvements development are often suitable for should be consistent with the intervening public access. These sites are lands uses. 1) desirable to people as a relief Natural Resources from the urban environment, and 2) suitable for access because The abundance of natural resources shoreline visitors have a low likeli- along the coastal area of Hawaii both hood of disturbing the existing use . enhance and constrain public access to Examples of such compatible land and along the shoreline. The occurence uses are open space and agricultural of resources such as stands of native areas. trees and plants, rock outcrops, or Hazard, Securit flocks of shorebirds enhances the public access experience. However, some Land uses that may present hazards natural areas, particularly wildlife to the public, such as some industries, habitats, are in some cases too fragile or uses that require security, such to withstand human intrusion. Natural as some military sites, harbors, or factors such as steep slopes or high airports may not be suitable cliffs can also pose a hazard to the for public access. public. Privacy B. Land Use Analysis Criteria Existing single-family residential The following criteria can be used developments have often been to analyze the compatibility and suitabi- designed in such a way that public lity of the various land uses for public access along the shoreline cannot access. now be provided without adversely Population affecting homeowner's privacy. Multi-family residential complexes Land uses that attract many people have a greater likelihood of pro- to a site such as commercial, com- viding shoreline access with minimal mercial /recreation or institutional privacy conflicts. complexes including schools and Accessibility government offices are usually suitable for shoreline public access. The closer a site7 is to a public road, Residential areas in the vicinity of street, or the highway the higher the shoreline, but set back from is its suitability for public access. the shore itself so 'as to minimize Distribution of Existing Access privacy conflicts, are usually com- patible with and in need of public A major factor in the selection of access. an otherwise suitable shoreline area Minimum Development for priority public access should be that there is presently little or no Land uses involving a minimum of existing shoreline access in the vicinity. 20 CHAPTER 6 CRITERIA AND GUIDELINES FOR THE LOCATION AND DISTRIBUTION OF PUBLIC SHORELINE ACCESS (cont.) Continuity are examples of sites that may be A determining factor in the selection adversely affected by human use. of a suitable shoreline area should Such sites may be acceptable for be that it can link existina and /nr public access on a seasonal basis proposed shoreline accesses into or with certain mitigative techniques. larger continuous units. Hazard C. Natural Resources Analysis Criteria There are two distinct aspects to The following criteria can be used evaluation of "hazards" for public to analyze the capability of shoreline access: sites to .provide public access based on 1) Hazards to users occur at sites the positive and/or negative characteris- with steep slopes, high cliffs or tics of the natural resources: unsafe geological characteristics. These areas have a low suitability Accessibility for public access unless precautions As stated in the land use analysis, are taken. the closer sites are to roads, 2) Hazards to development occur at streets, and highways, the higher sites that 11 in active tault zones or is its suitability for public access. are susceptible to floods, tsunamis, subsidence or landslides. Shorelines Uniqueness/ Interest with such characteristics are often Those sites with unique natural suitable for public access and open resources, or resources that have space because of their constraints a.high interest value often are on structures and developed facili- capable of providing public access, ties. if the areas are not too fragile (See "Fragility") - Shoreline areas GUIDELINES with stands of native vegetation, high populations of wildlife or Once a destination is established interesting geologic outcrops are and the existing and potential land uses examples of such sites. These with the natural resources of an area areas may also have educational are identified, the location, distribution, and scientific value. and overall design of the access system Fragility to and along the shoreline area are still Other shoreline sites have natural be determined. resources that are fragile and there- The following criteria should be fore are not capable of providing used to integrate and analyze the public public access except under very access requirements of coastal accessways controlled conditions. Wetlands, and related facilities. critical nesting areas, and rare and endangered species habitats 21 .CHAPTER 6 CRITERIA AND GUIDELINES FOR THE LOCATION AND DISTRIBUTION OF PUBLIC SHORELINE ACCESS (cont.) Accessibility Type of Access to be Provided The proposed accessway should be Along Shore!ine (Lateral) easily accessible from public or Lateral accessways should be located private (open) thoroughfares. along all beach front land to provide Private (restricted) accesses should continuous and unimpeded access also be considered for future inte- gration into the public or private along the entire reach of a sandy (open) access system. area or other useable recreational shoreline. Relationship to Existing Accesses To Shoreline (Mauka/Makai) Existing or proposed access distri- Accessways should be established bution in the surrounding area; to the shoreline areas to the maximu physical characteristics (type and s length of trail, land tenure, desti- extent feasible. They provide accesm to on- and off-shore destination areas. nation purposes, potential linkages, etc.) ;'continuity potential shall be considered in the development and implementation of specific applica- tions. LAND USE CATEGORIES Demand'Requirements User profiles (short term, long Urban Areas term; seasonal, non-seasonal); 1. Water-related Industrial Facilities: destination characteristics; trans- Coastal Industrial developments portation modes to proposed trail- should provide accessway(s) to head (vehicle, bicycle, motorcycle, the shoreline, where appropriate, pedestrian) ; and the capacity of for safe public shoreline use and the destination to sustain a specified where potential safety hazard intensity of use must be inventoried and use conflict can be minimized. and analyzed. Relationship to Existing and Other improvements, including Potential Land Uses parking, benches, paved walk- ways, signs, landscaping, etc. Degree of development, proposed should be provded, appropriate development, or non -development. to the project size, location Impact to special area (traverses and the amount of shoreline dis- or situated adjacent to a unique, placed by the industrial facility. fragile, or hazard resource, etc.) Provide public access for fishing, Surrounding property tenure (pub- wherever possible,on piers and lic, private) . breakwaters. Level of infrastructure (roads, water, etc.) 22 CHAPTER 6 CRITERIA AND GUIDELINES FOR THE LOCATION AND DISTRIBUTION OF PUBLIC SHORELINE ACCESS (cont.) 2. Commercial and Resort Areas: feasibly be provided withinthe Commercial and resort areas project. The presence of a along the shoreline should en- public shoreline recreational area with adequate access hance the shoreline experience by providing the maximum feasi- facilities nearby (within 1/4 mile) ble amount of highly improved could reduce the needed fre- public access. quency of accessway(s) to the shoreline in residential areas, as Public access improvements such could alternative proposals from as parking, paved walkways, homeowners association to provide benches, signs, trash con- adequate public beach access tainers, landscaping, lighting, opportunities. restroom and drinking fountains Provide unobstrusive paths to rould be incorporated as part or along the shoreline that res- f the overall development. pect the residents' privacy by 3. Residential Areas: encouraging passive public use, Encourage the development of where appropriateas part of improved shoreline access or individual residences. park-open space along the shore- Develop multi-family and multiple line to serve the general public unit projects with all-weather and area residents. paths, landscaping and other Where single family development improvements that are appropriate exists or is planned, accessways for the anticipated demand, size, to the shoreline should be loca-ted and location of the project. where streets end at the shore- The public access system should line, once every six residential generally provide continuous parcels, or once every 500 feet. access along the shoreline with New multiple family residential connection to other public areas projects of five dwelling units or streets. Provide public park- or more should provide sufficient ing if none exists in the area. open space within the project for Use elevational changes, planting, accessway(s) to the shoreline fences and signs to clearly and an adequate public parking differentiate the public access .area facility. Condominium con- areas from the private residen- versions of existing multiple tial areas. family development of five dwell- 4. Other Urban Uses: ing units or more should, where feasible, provide accessway(s) Provide maximum access along to the shoreline on-site, or off- the shoreline which is adequate- site but within the same general. ly screened from incompatible area if such a facility cannot uses. 23 CHAPTER 6 CRITERIA AND GUIDELINES FOR THE LOCATION AND DISTRIBUTION OF PUBLIC SHORELINE ACCESS (cbnt.) Place improvements, such as for any access into these areas. landscaping, benches, paving, Provide minimal improvements etc., that are appropriate for such as trash containers and the anticipated demand, and signs which identify the area size and location of the project. and interpret the resources. 5. Uses in or adjacent to Wetlands, Encourage surpervised inter- Ponds, Wildlife Areas, or Ecolog- pretive use of sensitive resource ically fragile Non-urban Areas: areas. Develop or provide public access 6. Agriculture /Open Areas: in these areas, if appropriate, only in a way that respects and Where feasible, trailheads in these enhances the natural values. areas should be situated on public Provide point access (e.g. spur lands. Accessways should be of trails) or view areas@ rather sufficient width and improvements Iss- than continuous shoreline paths. to protect persons using the acce Provide controls to protect wild- way and the adjacent agricultural life resources or other features area. . .. . ........ ........ '717 -7" M" 4 MIT, r 777=7 -7 wZ"', V "Paz -Itz 24 MAI 4t F-A 25 JI T, l M14l IM 41 4 f 5 "'@@fl ix 31 kg AT I""` 4 'i A 4Uj 1. Al IRK, CHAPTER 7 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES DESIGN /CONSTRUCTION In order to establish a uniform shoreline by interfacing destination standard of right-of-way widths the criteria with land uses and physical trail type must be clearly delineated. characteristics. Table 8 correlates the Chapter 6 describes the necessity of land uses with the types of trails or providing access to and along the access that should be provided. Table 8: LAND USE AND CLASS OF ACCESS Land Use Class of Access Government and Defense installation 1, n Industrial and port use 1, if Commercial Uses 1, 11, 111 Recreation Uses 1; 11, 111, IV, VI, VII Resort developments 1, 11, VII Residential developments 1, 11, 111, VII Uses in or adjacent to sensitive areas V, V1, VII Agricultural and open uses 1, 11, 111, IV, V, V1, VII Establishing the Rights-of-Way: Table 9 describes the minimum rights-of-way widths for the different classes of access referred to in Table -8. Table 9: MINIMUM RIGHTS-OF-WAY BY CLASS Class Description Right-of-Way Widths I Paved vehicular access for As established by all types of vehicles existing County subdivision and zoning codes If Major paved pedestrian trails. 15 feet minimum For heavy traffic such as trails to major recreational areas. III Bicycle path on all-weather, 10 feet minimum dust-free surface IV Jeep trail (gravel surface) 15 feet minimum V Minor pedestrian trails with 8 feet minimum varying types of surface. Usually for hiking or low use trail to and along shoreline. VI Equestrian trail with soft or Variable earth surface. VII Special use trail Variable. 27 CHAPTER 7 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES (cont.) Establishing the Treadway (Surface) of the Trail: A review of existing standards of treadway width shows the following widths; and types of surfacing to be applicable by categories: Table 10: MINIMUM TREADWAY WIDTHS BY CLASS Class Description Treadway Widths Type of Surfacing I Paved all-vehicular As established by access zoning and Subdivision Codes . if Major pedestrian 61 to 8 1 Paved trail III Bicycle path 41 (one way) Paved IV 4-Wheel drive tra,il 81 Gravel or natural surface V Minor pedestrian 31 All types of surfacing depending on terrain and location. VI Equestrian Varies, depending Varies, depending on location on natural surface and location. V11 Special use trails Establish when evaluating use with surrounding environ- ment. Establishing the Corridor of the Trail: In important trail systems to or ing environment must be considered. along the shoreline, the corridor takes For example.- urban type uses adjoining on an added significance, especially the shoreline may not have an established to protect the area of special features corridor through them in order to reach such as historic and cultural sites, wild- the shoreline; however, the shoreline life reserves, and other environmentally itself might be protected for its scenic, sensitive areas. Therefore, in defining recreational, -and other value through a corridor width, the overall surround- designating a lateral corridor. 28 CHAPTER 7 TYPICAL SECTION OF VARIOUS CLASSES OF ACCESSES TO SHORELINE - TREADWAYS (cont.) Class I - All vehicular access Right-of-Way established by existing County of Hawaii codes Swale & Shoulder Paved Treadway Swale & Shoulder Class 11 - Major pedestrian trail Corridor varies Buffer Zone (Varies) 15 Right-of Way ",,Buffer Zone (Varies) (Natural State) 41-611 6'-0' 4'-6' (Natural State) Swale Treadway Swale Paved Class III - Bicycle paths Corridor Varies Buffer Zone (Varies) 10' Right-of-Way .Buffer Zone (Varies) (Natural State) 3'-0' 6' - 0' 3'-0' (Natural State) Swale Swale Treadway, Paved Class IV - 4-Wheel drive trail Corridor Varies Buffer Zone (Varies) 15" Right-of-Way Buffer Zone (Varies) (Natural State) 3'-6' 8'-0 3'-6' (Natural State) Swale TreadwayTSwale Paved Existing Condition /Gravel /Natural NOTE: Usually kept in private ownership and only easement right to use as access to shoreline granted. Class V - Minor pedestrian trail Corridor Varies Buffer Zone (Varies 8'1' Right-of-Way Buffer Zone (Varies) (Natural State) 31-611 3'-0' 2'-6' (Natural State) Swale Treadway Swale Paved All Types - Depends On Terrain and Location Class V1 & V11 - Equestrian & Special Use Trails. See Table 10 29 CHAPTER 7 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES (cont. ) I Table 'I Ireflects the recommended buffer zone criteria as determined by general land use: Table '11: MINIMUM CORRIDOR WIDTHS BY LAND USE On Both Sides of Land Use Category Along Shoreline Access to Shoreline Urban Use Minimum 40 feet Minimum R.O.W. as determined by trail category Recreational Use Vary depending on Minimum R.O.W. as surrounding use and determined by trail shoreline condition category Uses in or Adjacent All of the sensitive Minimum R.O.W. as to sensitive areas areas determined by trail category Non-Urban U se Vary depending on Minimum R.O. W. as surrounding land use determined by trail and shoreline conditions. category. Establishing Parking Requirements: The development of public access where a trailhead is located at the parking criteria is also determined intersection of a trail to and along the ,through site specific analysis of public shoreline.- access baseline criteria: destination, land use and resource characteristics, Along a public thoroughfare where the and interaction with other access systems. trailhead usua*lly begins as final access For consistency, the specific parking to the shoreline, parking must be stall dimensions and paving require- coordinated with the State Highway ments of the zoning code shall be used Department and/or other governmental for urban improvements for the pur-- agencies which control public roads for poses of this section. it is along these. public roads that park- ing must be provided for users of the Non-urban requirement (car storage access to the shoreline. Off-site park- areas, gravel surfacing, etc.) may be ing should also adhere to the standards considered through site specific analysis. and criteria developed in this section. In most: cases, parking provisions will usually occur at trailheads except 30 CHAPTER 7 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES (cont. As a guide, this table suggests the parking requirements by destination type along the shoreline. Table 12: PARKING REQUIREMENT AT TRAILHEADS BY DESTINATION PARK ING REQUI REMENT/*UserVolume Destination along From 50 to 1,000 Less than 50 shoreline persons per day persons per day Active Recreation Per Zoning Code for Per Zoning Code for Swimming structural improvements; structural improvements; Surfing otherwise, minimum of otherwise, minimum of Fishing/Diving ten [10] stalls per five [ 5] stalls -per Boating trailhead , and the trailhead. Public Parks minimum of one [ 1 ] handicapped stall for Passive Recreation every fifteen [151 stalls Hiking provided depending upon Camping travel conditions. Food Gathering Picnicking Sun Bathing PARKING REQUI REMENT /*UserVolume Destination along Over 50 Less than 50 shoreline persons per day persons per day Environmentally or Minimum ten [10] stalls Minimum five [51 stalls Ecologically Sensitive per trailhead. per trailhead. Areas or Areas with Special Features Historic Natural area Resources Wetlands Wildlife reserve Scenic area *To be determined by specific areas. 31 @jW771 Tl@ op 7z@ twm 'u,"t CHAPTER 7 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES (cont. LANDSCAPING Landscaping is usually thought of 5. Reflect environmental conditions: as a means of enhancing the aesthetics The selection of proper and appro- of an area. It is provided as part of priate landscaping materials can an overall development plan for a pro- reflect or highlight the general ject and complements structural develop- environmental conditions of an area. ment. In addition to beautifying an Certain types of plant material, for area, landscaping serves a number of example, which are already existing other functions. These include: in an area can be used in a land- scaping plan rather than importing 1. Demarcation of an area, system, or plants which are not suited to the path: Landscaping can be used as particular environment. a border, both physically and psychologically, to outline an area, 6. Complement structural development: a system, or path. This is often Landscaping is most often used to accomplished through planting complement and soften the impact of strips and uniformity in the use of structural development. . For public plants. Instead of using fences or access systems, landscaping can be other similar construction, plant used to soften surrounding develop- material can be used for the same ment in an urbanized area as well as purposes. to balance the impact of pavement for a right-of-way or a parking area. 2. Noise buffer: The use of plants, especially relative tall hedges and shrubs, can help to buffer noise Considerations for the landscaping ele- originating on an access. ment of public access systems can be 3. Shade: Trees will provide shade set forth as follows: along an access system, especially 1. Landscaping needs to be blended in areas of intense sunlight and with the existing vegetation of an heat. They can be used, for ex- area. This would provide a smooth ample, in rest areas along an access. transition rather than an abrupt departure from the character of the 4. Emphasize visual access: Properly area. In addition, the existing planned and maintained landscaping vegetation of an area is usually best can emphasize visual access for a suited to the environmental conditions public access system. This can be of the area, such as rainfall, insola- achieved through using landscaping tion, and other similar factors. to frame an access or by varying the type of plant material used to demar- cate the access. -33 CHAPTER 7 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES (cont.) 2. Plant materials used to landscape scape public access systems. The public access systems should be use of oleander, for example, should suitable to the particular environ- be avoided. In addition, plants ment in which the systems are with thorns should be avoided unless located. The use of inappropriate they are to be used to prevent move- materials will result in a number of ment into certain areas. problems, such as growth problems and maintenance. 5. The types of landscaping used should vary according to the type 3. Plant materials for public access of access system. For certain systems need to be low maintenance. types of systems shrubs may be In shoreline areas, for example, appropriate, while in other types plants which are tolerant to salt of systems trees would be better and which have low water demands suited. should be used. In addition, main- tenance costs can be high. These The guidelines and standards for land- costs can be alleviated by using scaping can range from no landscaping plants which do not require constant in wilderness or primitive areas or attention or have rapid growth rates. totally new landscaping in urbanized areas or for projects such as park 4. Care should be taken not to use developments. poisonous or noxious plants to land- 7 34 CHAPTER 7 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES (cont. SIGNAGE The use of signage is an important this should be extended, if it is element in public access systems in that appropriate, to new signage. it identifies an area as well as facilities and amenities; it can convey messages 2. The material used for signage needs such as adopted rules for use or prohi- to be vandal proof. The costs of bitions; it can identify hazards of the vandalism are high, which makes the area; and it can tell a story, such as selection of material important. Signs the history of an area. should also be durable and difficult to remove. Considerations for signage guidelines and standards are set forth as follows: 3. Signage should relate to the charac- ter of the area and not be disrup- 1. Signage needs to be readily identi- tive. This requires that design fiable and readable. Since signs considerations be developed with are used to communicate, they care and understanding of the should be uniform in terms of design existing landscape. and contain simple messages. Sym- bolization should be used whenever The following table suggests the public possible. Existing signage systems signing program for the various types have established symbolization and of accesses to the shoreline: 7,J OIL ", WIN N, k ft%ws mjWLA 35 CHAPTER 7 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES (cont.) Table 13: SIGNING PROGRAM BY CLASSES OF ACCESSES TO THE SHORELINE Class Class Description Material Color Size Location Type I All-vehicular Metal (1) (2) (2) All types roads 11 Major pedes- Wooden Muted (2) Trailhead identification trian trail Orientation Wooden Information (1) (2) Road Warning intersec- tion III Bicycle path Wooden Muted (2) Trailhead Identification Orientation Information Wooden/ Muted Road Warning and metal intersec- Stop Signs tion IV 4-Wheel Drive Wooden Muted (2)- Trailhead Identification Metal (1) (2) Road Warning and intersec- Stop Signs tion V Minor pedes- Wooden Muted (2) Trailhead Identification trian trail Metal (1) (2) Road Warning and intersec- Stop Signs tion VI Equestrian Wooden Muted (2) Trailhead Identification trail Meta 1 (1) (2) Road Warning and intersec- Stop Signs tion VII Other class: Wooden/ (1) (2) Case-by- Special use Metal case review 1) Conform to existing County or State standards 2) Conform to existing* sign code 16 CHAPTER 7 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES SIGNAGE (cont.) SUGGESTED TYPESTYLE: Helvetica Medium in upper and lower case. This typestyle is used exten- Ic sively in major signage programs. The Hilo and Honolulu Airports utilizes this style of lettering. TRAIL IDENTIFICATION: KingsTrail The windward side should utilize metal components and the leeward side wood components for the signages. Corners should be radiused for the prevention of accidents. When replacements are necessary, they should be economical and quick. USES OF SYMBOLS: To assure effective communication between the signages and reader, symbols should be developed. With the use of symbols, Directional Am- narrative elimination will be possible. The Directional Arrow is an essential symbol Arrows mw for signages. The example illustrates the intergration of a symbol and the suggested typestyle; Helvetica Medium. DIRECTORY: This signage will identify the location, list the amenities of the area, and define the rules. The example incorporates the typestyle, Helvetica Medium in upper and lower c se, a logo, Punalulu Beach Park and symbols representing the amenities. Short narrative explaining the area will be H Ivet M d part of the signage. Le e, e e,,,) 37 CHAPTER 7 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES SHORELINE LOGO (cont.) -OY5 'kZ 'di R, "M '1'!4"@'z@',' "X The Public Access to the Shoreline logo. The essential elements of the logo are the water and the shoreline. Other components for the logo will A communicate the public's accessibility to the shoreline. 38 CHAPTER 7 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES SHORELINE LOGO (cont.) SHORELINE Where the Pacific Ocean touches our Island. OCEAN WATER Which brought and sustained life on our Island will continue to be for all to utilize and enjoy forever. ore i ubilocAccess CONCEPT APPROACH FOR SHORELINE LOGO The word Shoreline is located above the wavy horizontal line and symbolizes our Island. The wavy horizontal line symbolizes the ocean water. The words Public Access beneath the wayy horizontal line symbolizes that the ocean water belongs to the people. Sh I LMOO@WAUO P 39 CHAPTER 7 DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND MAINTENANCE GUIDELINES (cont.) MAINTENANCE Common trail maintenance problems maintenance, and public education and suggested prevention action meas- are on-going deterrents. ures include: 3. Provisions for fire protection: In 1. Littering: Provide secured waste- fire-prone natural areas, provide collecting containers. At least one fire breaks and fire lanes; insure litter container at trailhead. Pro- access to fire-fighting forces and vide signs with positive wordings. equipment at all times. 2. Vandalism: Utilize materials which General safety maintenance such as are durable and/or difficult to re- falling coconuts, defective treadways, move. Constant patrolling, prompt and washed-out portions of trails need to be immediately attended to. A", f 0, ;4 IL 0. @7' a P, 7 40 CHAPTER 8 DISTRICT PROFILES Hamakua North Kohala North Hilo South Kohala South Hilo North Kona South Kona Puna X- Kau N 6 r-t h Island of HAWAII 41 J@' Ti 1@, A YN A I A fo@ it CHAPTER 8 DISTRICT PROFILES PUNA DISTRICT Puna is blessed with many existing still available @subdivicled lots, a poten- and potential accesses to the shoreline tia.1 for increasing population within the inasmuch as most of the shore lands next twenty years exists.. from the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park This being the case, the shoreline to Pohoiki are in government lands. areas become increasingly important for State and Federal ownership of 'these recreational or other pursuits. Also, lands encourages potential accessibility potential tsunami inundation areas along of the shoreline for fishing and recre- the shoreline and a risk of possible ational purposes. From Pohoiki to Keaau, lava flow restricts urban development most of the lands are under private along the shore. Designated regional ownership. However, because these parks'such as the Hawaii Volcanoes Na- shoreline areas are characterized by tional Park and the Kaimu Black Sand rugged cliffs and rough water, they Beach -further substantiate the need for may not have the heavy usage except an increase in accesses to the shoreline for local fishing and small parks for the as many visitors other than residents are residents of many subdivisions scattered encouraged to come to.the area. throughout this area. An exception is the Kapoho Beach area where preserva- COURSES OF ACTION FOR PUNA tion of the tidal pools and public use of P-1 Continue use of shoreline trails' the only protected bay along the Puna and campsites for hiking and Coast seems necessary. fishing in the Hawaii Volcanoes A summary of existing accesses to National Park. and along the shoreline for the Puna P-2 Provide trail systems that inte- district and length of government lands grate preservation of historic is shown on the summary sheet. sites, shoreline fishing, hiking and existing or proposed major recreational facilities. Assessment of Access Needs P-3 Establish trail, .system along Puna district now contains some shoreline as part of the proposed 11,700 people, double the number in the Kapoho Tidepools State Park for census count of 1970. This increase is fishing and interpretive trails a result of an influx of people into the on tidal pool environment. relatively inexpensive subdivided lands created from the early 1950's and 1960's. P-4 Establish a beach park system Some 50,000 lots in large subdivisions along shoreline as accipss to for residential and agricultural uses shoreline from Nanawale Bay to have been created over the past twenty Papai Bay are implemeAted. . years. The growth in population is P-5 Establish scenic corridors makai tremendous for Puna because of these of Government Road along the vast vacant lands that are available for entire Puna coastline. housing. Based on the increase in popu- lation during the past ten years, and 43 @77= Mac-:;. 4 - @@7,7 T. 74' I 7V" 17 F "AAW 44 CHAPTER 8 DISTRICT PROFILES (cont.) SOUTH HILO DISTRICT The district of South Hilo, located this rate of increase, and this district on the east side of the Big Island, being the urban center of East Hawaii, stretches some 32.4 miles along the it is foreseeable that the population in shoreline. The shoreline is character- this area would greatly increase. For ized by rough surf with the exception this reason, preservation of existing of Hilo Bay, the only deep harbor port shoreline accesses and development of on the east side, which is protected by additional ones are imperative assuming a breakwater. The city of Hilo, located that needs increase in direct proportion in this district, is the largest urban with population increase. center in East Hawaii. Because basic infrastructures such Beginning from the Puna boundary as improved roads, restroom facilities, to the south, the shoreline is composed and parking are already available along of medium to low cliffs formed by layers most of Hilo Coast, the most pressing of lava flows meeting the ocean. As one need seems to be the upgrading of travels from Leleiwi Point to Hilo Bay, existing accesses. shoreline conditions change to low, rocky lava reefs. Then, from Wailuku River along the Hamakua Coast, the shoreline COURSES OF ACTION FOR SOUTH HILO again changes to high cliffs interspersed with valleys and associated bays where SH-1 Develop Trail System to shore- inland streams meet the ocean. line as Hawaiian Homes land becomes developed. Because this is the most urbanized SH-2. Upgrade trail system within the district in East Hawaii, improved acces- Leleiwi Park, Onekahakaha ses along the shoreline exist for approxi- Beach Park, Keokea Loop area, mately two-thirds of the total shoreline and Reed's Bay shoreline (20.5 miles of 32.4 miles). Additionally, destination areas. there are thirty-three access points to the shoreline at an average interval of SH-3 Develop trailheads and trail one per mile but primarily centered on system for fishing and the low lying areas between Lele'iwi and recreation along the coast at Wailuku River. Honolii Cove, Papaikou, Pepee- keo, Kolekole Beach Park, and Assessments of Needs Hakalau. The South Hilo District presently contains some 40,300 residents, an increase from 33,900 in 1970. Based on 45 G @M'E 1@ @16 ggg,,,4,N ya @ @ -@,Pq X, 26. Z@ tggpg 'ARM, MI, MR- at 46 CHAPTER 8 DISTRICT PROFILES (cont.) NORTH HILO DISTRICT North Hilo District lies on the east employment base of the district, the coast of the Big Island between Hamakua sugar plantations, are redistributing and South Hilo. There are 16 miles of employee housing into Pepeekeo in South shoreline in this district with most of Hilo District, Honokaa in Hamakua District, them in high cliffs. The only low areas and around Laupahoehoe. are at Maulua Bay, Laupahoehoe Point, and at the mouth of Kaawalii Stream. Assessment of Needs Most of the shoreline are under Population in North Hilo will prob - private ownership since these makai ably stabilize at the 1,700 to 1,800 level lands are used basically for growing for the next twenty years since no large- sugar cane: About 4.6 miles are public scale urban development is anticipated. lands which are either steep barren Additionally, because high cliffs, for the lands, beach parks, or lands leased for most part, limit the use of the entire pasturing and sugar cane cultivation. North Hilo coast, the need for more accesses is small. The now accessible The main urban center is in the Laupahoehoe Point remains the focal Laupahoehoe area where the latest cen- recreational area for the district. sus count shows about 800 residents. Population figures show a decrease from COURSES OF ACTION FOR NORTH HILO 1,881 residents in 1970 to 1,690 in 1980 NH-1 Encourage development of trail for the district as a whole. No large systems to the shoreline from increase in population is foreseeable in roadways to the shoreline at this district inasmuch as the largest Maulua and Kaawalii. r-11" Apo, 1W EAW A4 47 ftliv 14 A!" 74 41 'm "Am O,u Nal sa@ AT pq '@J "W'vi W@4 pl, fS, lit bil,5 I'Xi p n 1, ,1, 4- I @,A v'i R'll 4 1 AAA V@ trv CHAPTER 8 DISTRICT PROFILES (cont.) HAMAKUA DISTRICT The Hamakua District is situated on the coastline, areas were rendered in- the north coastline of East Hawaii. It accessible to the public by the non- encompasses 34.3 miles of shoreline, usage of the public accesses and the ten miles of which are in government agricultural uses of the coastlands. lands. As in other districts in East Also, the southern shoreline of this Hawaii, the shoreline is characterized district of high cliffs and rough surf by high cliffs, interspersed with gulches has limited use. or water falls where the mountain streams meet the ocean. The north end Assessment of Needs of the district includes Waipio, Waimanu, and Honopue valleys which are the only Population in Hamakua District is areas in the district with low shoreline estimated to be stabilized between areas. 5,000 to 7,000 persons within the next twenty years. Needs for the area The County General Plan designates focuses on accesses for local fishing most of the Hamakua coast as agriculture along the rugged coastline and trails in and open areas with the valleys in con- the Waipio- Honopue Valleys. servation and open. Paa6ilo Sugar Mill is the only shoreline urban development COURSES OF ACTION FOR HAMAKUA within the district. Ha- I Encourage the use and develop- The present population is 5,200 ment of hiking trails which persons as compared to 4,648 persons interconnect Waipio Valley to in 1970. Honopue Valley, utilizing the existing trailhead at Waipio Along the coastline existing-public Va I ley. accesses to the shoreline are through Ha-2 Encourage development of access scattered government owned lands along to coastal valleys between Kaula the coast, and at the Waipio and Honopue Gulch and Waipio Valley. Valleys. A basic problem is that along m 44a Z", u'@' F 7-7 T-TAW 49 AJ CIV 41V .@i4WIA AQ vw ,afa, so CHAPTER 8 DISTRICT PROFILES (cont.) NORTH KOHALA DISTRICT The north Kohala district is Valleys; mauka-makai roads to Keokea situated at the northern tip of the Park, to the lighthouse at Kauhola Point, Big Island. The shoreline is situated to Upolu Point,.and to Kapaa Park; and on the leeward as well as the windward through scattered State lands from Mahu- side of the island and stretches for kona to Kawaihae. Past practice of Kohala approximately 36.2 miles. Sugar Company allowing employees to traverse over private lands to get to The windward side starts from favorite fishing areas in the valleys and Awini Valley which is part of the chain along the Kohala Coast have been cur- of valleys situated on the slopes of tailed by the closing of the plantation. Kohala Mountains. The shoreline on Therefore, present opportunities for the this side is characterized by deeply- use of the shoreline are now restricted. incised valleys meeting,the ocean at low sandy beaches, interspersed with high, Assessment of Needs steep cliffs. After Pololu Valley, the last in the chain, the shoreline is fairly The population of North Kohala is uniform with high, steep cliffs and inter- expected to increase from the 1980 census mittent low spots of boulders. The lands count. Urban areas from Niulii to Hawi above this shoreline were cultivated are expected to be the areas of popula- intensively for sugar cane during the tion growth as more employment opportuni- last century but were phased out in the ties become available. early 1970's. These agricultural lands are now in fallow or in pastures. The valleys on the windward side presently serve as attractions to hikers From Upolu Point, the North Kohala and campers. Because the bulk of these district shoreline continues south for valleys is in private ownership, public some additional twenty miles. Here, the access is now restricted unless the sea is much calmer than on the windward ancient Hawaiian trails which meander in side, and the shoreline is characterized the valleys and ridges are verified as by high to low cliffs ranging from over public. Consideration must also be given twenty feet in height at Upolu -to lower to the near pristine condition of the cliffs all along the leeward shoreline of valleys. this dist?ict. From Pololu Valley to Mahukona, The County General Plan foresees there is a need to accomodate fishermen this district to remain primarily rural in and other users of the shoreline and areas character with urban centers in Hawi, of historic significance, especially accesses Kapaau, NiuIiiJ-1 and Halaula. Population through the privately owned lands from - here has shown a slight decrease from the lateral State highway. From Mahukona 3,376 perons in 1970 to 3,250 in 1980. to Kawaihae, which is largely undeveloped, accesses from the Akoni Pule Highway Available public access is through will become important as the areas shoreline trails in the AwinFP0I0IU become developed. 51 CHAPTER 8 DISTRICT PROFILES (cont.) COURSES OF ACTION FOR NORTH KOHALA NKh-1 Establish trailheads and trail birthplace in the planning of system along shoreline from the shoreline trail system. Pololu Valley to Mahukona. NKh-3 Designate the valleys as a sensi- Existing and proposed govern- tive area where existing ecosys- ment beach parks can serve as tems should be preserved. the major trailheads. NKh-2 Incorporate the protection of NKh-4 Provide for a trail system along historic sites such as the Lapa- the entire stretch of coastline kahi area and Kamehameha's from Mahukona to Kawaihae. 74 M"Ok, 1@1% AIM 41 Tto,- k7 53 CHAPTER 8 DISTRICT PROFILES (cont.) SOUTH KOHALA DISTRICT Among all the districts of the Big ted to a large amount of urban uses. Island, the South Kohala district con- The many mixed uses along the entire tains the smallest stretch of shoreline. stretch of this shoreline attract local Some 17.9 miles of shoreline from Kawai- residents as well as tourists. The hae to Anaehoomalu Bay are in this Mauna Kea Beach Hotel,and all other district. proposed hotels at Kalahuipuaa and Anaehoomalu will invariably attract About 7 miles of the length of many tourists to the shore. The shoreline are under public ownership. attraction of the South Kohala shore- Because of this large percentage of line is not only -limited to the tourists publicly owned lands fronting the ocean, as reflected by the heavy local use of there are may existing public accesses the Spencer Beach Park. Therefore, to the shoreline. Some 31 public access there will be heavier demands for the points are strung along the shoreline use of the shoreline as the shoreline (See Table 7) or an average of 1 access areas become further developed. for every 0.6 mile of shoreline. In addition, resort developments such as The Queen Kaahumanu Highway also Mauna Lani Resorts, Mauna Kea has an impact in the development of the; Beach Hotel, and Waikoloa Beach shoreline, as it opened up vast areas of Resorts are required to provide undeveloped land to urban pressures. additional accesses to the beaches Guidelines to accesses through the?e as an adjunct to their development. lands, including historic and scenit consideration, must be made prior to The shoreline in this district is their development. characterized by lowland areas where COUR .SES OF ACTION FOR there are many sandy beaches and calm SOUTH KOHALA bays. Also situated here is the Kawai- hae Small Boat Harbor. SKh-1 Future shore developments should provide a system of trails and The County General Plan designates trailheads to the shoreline as set almost the entire shore of this district forth in the guidelines of this for urban use, ranging from the indus- report. trial designation in Kawaihae to resort SKh-2 A shoreline trail system should in Anaehoomalu. The population for be established following the this district increased from 2,300 persons to 4,600 within ten years. - proposed Ala Kahakai System. SKh-3 Encourage development of highly Assessment of Needs improved access as part of resort and other urban development in As. indicated in the County General the coastal areas. Plan, the South Kohala shoreline is commit- 54 Ln fit CHAPTER 8 DISTRICT PROFILES (cont.) NORTH KONA DISTRICT The North Kona district lies on the Assessment of Needs leeward side of the island. Calm@ seas, The North Kona Area is foreseen to sandy beaches in bays and inlets and be the urban center of West Hawaii, low, rocky shoreline are characteristic where population conceivably can increase of the northern coastline of this dis- tremendously. The anticipated population trict. From Anaehoomalu to Kailua lie 33 miles of largely undeveloped lands. increase, augmented by the many develop- South of Kailua, the majority of the ments that are earmarked along the shore- shoreline is in urban use. Of the line, dictate that proper accesses to and 45.6 miles of shoreline in this district, along the shoreline be provided. The 18 miles or 39 percent are under public Kona shoreline is extremely important to ownership. the well-being of residents and tourists alike as beaches and other shoreline There are 24 access points along attractions are a vital part of the Kona the 45.6 mile stretch of shoreline or an way-of-life. average of 1 access for every 1. 3 miles. The vast area from Anaehoomalu to Much of these public accesses are Kailua should be provided with more located from Kailua to Keauhou Bay access points to the shoreline--be it by where the shoreline is substantially public parks or trail system, but the developed. As in the South Kohala historic, recreational, and scenic signi- area, Queen Kaahumanu Highway has ficance of the area must always be kept opened up vast areas of undeveloped in mind. lands and also has provided a lateral improved road to get to the shoreline. COURSES OF ACTION FOR NORTH KONA The North Kona district has witness- NKo-1 Pursue the implementation of the ed the largest increase in population in Ala Kahakai (Trail by the Sea) the past ten years. Today, there are concept along the shoreline from about 13,800 persons in North Kona as Kailua to Anaehoomalu in this compared to 4,800 in 1970. district. The County General Plan designates NKo-2 New shore developments should the northern shoreline of North Kona as conform to the trail system stan- resort, regional recreational areas, con- dards as set forth in the guide- servation, open, and agriculture. From lines. Kailua to Keauhou Bay, there are resort NKo-3 Plan all trail systems to incorpo- centers interspersed with residential rate the scenic beauty and histo- and other urban uses along the shore- ric significance of the area. line. The strip between Keauhou Bay and the South Kona boundary near NKo-4 Establish a shoreline trail Kealakekua Bay'is designated as con- system from Keauhou to servation, open, and agricultural. Kealakekua Bay. 56 IVY, 15 4W' el wit, k vt CHAPTER 8 DISTRICT PROFILES (cont.) SOUTH KONA DISTRICT The South Kona district contains Population is expected to have only some 40.3 miles of shoreline on the lee- a gradual increase over the next twenty ward side of the island. The shoreline years. However, providing local resi- is characterized by cliffs formed by lava dents with adequate accesses to the flowing down the slopes of Mauna Loa. shoreline is a need inasmuch as most shore lands are under private ownership The district has a population of Public lands are in Honaunau, Kipahoehoe, 5, 900 people, an increase of 1, 900 Milolii and Kaulanamauna, comprising persons over the past ten years. The about one-fi.fth of the total shoreline.. shoreline has been designated in the County General Plan as conservation, Housing developments in the near open, and agriculture along the majority vacant subdivisions from Kealia to Milolii of the coast. Only the south side of would-also increase the need for public Kealakekua Bay has been designated accesses to the shoreline. urban. About 1.6 miles of shoreline are under federal ownership mainly in the COURSES OF ACTION FOR SOUTH KONA City of Refuge National Park at Honau- SKo-1 Coordinate shoreline accesses nau Bay. with the continued preservation of historic sites along the shore- Other publicly owned shore lands line. are 6.7 miles of State lands and 0.2 SKo-2 Establish trailheads and trail miles of County land. system to interconnect histori- There are only 11 public access cally established destinations points along this 45.6 mile stretch of such as Kealakekua Bay to City shoreline. Also, from Honaunau toward of Refuge. South Point, the nearest lateral public SKo-3 Future agricultural /urban sub- highway is significantly far away from divisions along the shoreline the shore, thus limiting shoreline access should.have public accesses to opportunities. and along the shoreline. Assessment of Needs SKo-4. Develop a scenic and recreational corridor along the coastline from The South Kona district shoreline Palemano Point to Manuka Bay in is rich in historic sites. Captain James coordination with private land Cook first landed in Hawaii near Keala- owners. kekua Bay; battle grounds of warring SKo-5 Encourage the provision of Hawaiian chiefs as well as the City of access to the shoreline through Refuge which was reconstructed by the public lands and provision of federal government are still intact. lateral access along the shore- Therefore, the continued need to line from trailheads. preserve these significant historical sites is evident. 58 Ott 59 CHAPTER 8 DISTRICT PROFILES (cont.) KA'U DISTRICT Among the districts of the island, surrounding subdivisions. These sub- this district has the longest stretch of. divisions present a potential for a sudden shoreline located on both sides of South increase in population. (See Table 7 Point. About 76 miles of shoreline, for access inventory.) extending from Manuka Bay on the lee- ward side to South Point to the Hawaii Assessment of Needs Volcanoes National Park on the wind- ward side, are within the Kalu district. The leeward side of the Ka'u district is presently acces -sible for camping and Much of the shoreline is character- fishing Only by' jeep or other four-wheel ized by rough, barren lava cliffs created drive vehicles. Private lands are accessi- by the many lava flows which spewed ble by permission only. The basic need down the slopes of Mauna Loa. There is the accessibility of this stretch of coast- are pockets of low lands along the sea, line from the public highway and the including the South Point area to Honuapo establishment of public accesses. Bay and at Punalu'u. The entire Kalu coastal land is in conservation, open and The South Point area is also used for agriculture under the County General camping and fishing by Kalu residents as Plan, with the exception of Honuapo and well as others. The continued accessibi- Punalu'u which are designated as resort. lity of this area seems to be necessary. As the area is further developed such as Much of the shore lands in this dis- for a small boat harbor, more facilities trict are under public ownership, includ- such as restrooms and paved parking ing eight miles of State lands along the areas will become necessary. Manuka ahupuaa coastline, about seven miles of Hawaiian Homes land at South The windward side of South Point Point, an additional seven miles of State has potential areas for fishing and recre- land scattered along Ho'nuapo to Punalu'u ation. Limited access and private land area, and fifteen miles of federal land in ownership along the shoreline deter the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. These public from free use of the shoreline. public shore lands offer the-public freer use of the shore as compared to those COURSES OF ACTION FOR KAIU under private ownership. Kau-1 Establish trail system from Mama- Population in the area stabilized to lahoa Highway to shoreline. about 3, 700 in the last ten years, and no Kau-2 Establish scenic and recreational large increas.e is foreseen within the next corridor along the entire Ka'u twenty years inasmuch as the entire dis- shoreline. trict is rural in nature. However, there Kau-3 Coordinate with Hawaiian Homes are many vacant lots in Hawaiian Ocean to establish trailsystem, includ-, View Estates Subdivision and in the ing trailheads in South Point. 60 =Mao mmm M M m M M 7 A 4V qg, Vt; BIBLIOGRAPHY AND REFERENCES Asbaugh, Byron L. and Kordish, Raymond J., Trail Planning and. Layout, National Audubon Society, Inc., 1965. Brooks, Mary E., Planning for Urban Trails, P:A.S. Report No. 252, ASPO, 1969. .. .1 Forest Service, Trails Handbook, 1972. Forest Service Catalog of Posters and Signs, 1978. Proudman, Robert D., AMC Guide to Trail Building and -Maintenance, Appalachian Mountain Club, 1977. Rutka, Susan B., Ala Kahakai, 1973. San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission, Public Access. Supplement (Preliminary Staff Report), March 1979. State of Hawaii, DLNR, Proposals for Planning, Coordination and Development of Hawaii's Statewide Trail and Access System, 1978. State of Washington, Interagency Committee for Outdoor Recreation, State Trails Workshop, Trail Standards and Terminology.,, 1975. Department of Transportation, Trails and Pedestrian Facilities, undated. 62 ,NOAA COASTAL SEOVICES CTR LIBOARY 3 6668 14111181 7