Blessing held for Hanalei Water Line Improvements Project
HANALEI – The Department of Water (DOW) and contractor Koga Engineering & Construction Inc. held a blessing ceremony on Monday, March 16, for the Hanalei Water Line Improvements Project. This $3.1 million project will upgrade the water main infrastructure to meet current water system standards, including existing fire flow requirements.
“The water line that currently serves Weke Road is over 100 years old,” stated Joe Tait, DOW’s Manager and Chief Engineer. “I am pleased that we are finally able to upgrade it in order to better serve our customers in the area.”
The Hanalei Water Line Improvements Project will upgrade 3,000 feet of water lines from the current 2- to 2.5-inch diameter to 8-inch and 12-inch diameters. This increase in pipe diameter will help with the flow of water for fire suppression. Additionally, fire hydrants will be installed, water service laterals and connections to residents, and affected roads will be repaved. The Department of Public Works has also been coordinating with DOW on resurfacing other roads within Hanalei.
Monday’s blessing was officiated by the Rev. Dr. Mark Poppen. It included Board of Water Supply Chair Tom Shigemoto, DOW’s Manager and Chief Engineer Joe Tait, Koga Engineering & Construction Inc. Project Manager Garret Ichimura, and Kaua’i County Council Chairman Mel Rapozo.
The project is estimated to be completed by the end of this year.
For further information or questions, please contact the Department of Water at 808-245-5461 or email publicrelations@kauaiwater.org.
Dignitaries participate in a dirt-turning blessing ceremony with traditional ʻōʻō sticks on Monday, March 16, 2026, for the Hanalei Water Line Improvements Project. From left to right: Koga Engineering & Construction Inc. Project Manager Garret Ichimura; Kaua’i County Council Chairman Mel Rapozo; Board of Water Supply Chair Tom Shigemoto; DOW Manager and Chief Engineer Joe Tait.
Reverend Dr. Mark Poppen (far left) speaks to attendees about the sacred value of water as a natural resource and its importance to the community.
The Hanalei Water Line Improvements Project (Phase I) commenced in June 2025.
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