Contract awarded to fix quake damage to gym in Kapa’au

The contract for the first phase of the earthquake repairs of the Ikuo Hisaoka Gymnasium at Kamehameha Park in Kapa’au has been awarded to Constructors Hawaii Inc., with work expected to begin in mid-March.

The gym will remain closed during the repairs, which are expected to be completed in mid-May, according to Big Island Department of Parks and Recreation officials.

Phase 1 will consist of removing debris from the October 2006 earthquake, clearing out the remaining ceiling tiles and light fixtures, and ensuring that the bleacher system is functioning properly. The major structural cracks and truss connections between the walls and columns in the gym as well as the kitchen and meeting rooms will be repaired. Phase 1 will restore the building to a safe condition so that further architectural and electrical work can occur during Phase 2.

Phase 1 is estimated to cost $351,000. Since the damage occurred as the result of the 2006 earthquake, FEMA will pay 75 percent of the repairs; the County of Hawai’i’s share is 25 percent.

Further architectural and electrical work will be included in Phase 2.