Blessing commemorates completion of Waimea rockfall mitigation project

The Department of Public Works held a blessing on Tuesday to commemorate the completion of the $1.6-million Waimea Rockfall Mitigation Project.

The work was prompted by the emergency closure of a portion of Menehune Road and the Waimea Swinging Bridge on Jan. 4, 2022, due to debris from a rockfall. This prompted an emergency proclamation signed by Mayor Kawakami the same day.

During the initial response to the Menehune Road rockfall and the resulting closure of Menehune Road, the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency and County Administration coordinated emergency efforts with federal, state, county and community-based organizations, landowners and utility companies.

Efforts included ensuring first responder access and response capabilities, food distributions and donations from various partners, wellness checks and needs assessments, and engagement with utility companies to provide services to residents.

The project consisted of repairs to the Waimea Swinging Bridge, rockfall mitigation assessment and slope stabilization work, and improving Panini Road for emergency access.

The County Department of Public Works subsequently managed the longer-term repair and mitigation activities.

“After nearly a year, we are grateful to the many agencies and partners that worked diligently and tirelessly for the affected residents of Waimea Valley,” Mayor Derek S. K. Kawakami said.

Contractors for the project included Geolabs Inc., Kaikor Construction, HiTech, Prometheus Construction and Koi security.