The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) – Harbors Division last week celebrated the blessing of Hilo Harbor’s newly completed Pier 4 cargo wharf project, the Pier 1 cargo yard and passenger terminal improvements.
The projects are designed to increase operational space and increase cargo handling efficiencies.
According to the HDOT announcement, these improvements to the passenger terminal will create a more pleasant and comfortable environment for cruise passengers.
“These projects are more than brick and mortar improvements, they’re about providing opportunities for our people and meeting the needs of our communities, ” said Gov. David Ige.
“ We are ensuring the viability of our commercial harbor system and encouraging a healthy job market that includes work opportunities in transportation, maritime related trades, hospitality and tourism, not to mention the local consultants and contractors the state has employed to complete the job.”
Development of the Pier 4 cargo terminal was separated into several phases including: dredging, container yard development, and Kumau Street improvements.
In addition to the newly constructed Pier 4 wharf structure, safety and efficiency improvements were made by separating cargo and passenger operations at Hilo Harbor.
An additional berth space was also created to accommodate the growing general maritime and cruise industries.
Finally, a new interisland pier replaces the aging Pier 2, which is unable to accommodate the new container handling equipment and vessels.
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