Hilo, Hawaii – March 31, 2025 – The Hawaii State Department of Health (DOH) is considering approving the construction of 43 rainfall runoff drainage injection wells in Hilo, near Waiakeawaena Elementary School. The proposed project, spearheaded by the County of Hawaii, aims to improve drainage along Kilauea Avenue, mitigating flooding and improving road conditions.
According to a notice issued by the DOH’s Environmental Management Division under the Safe Drinking Water Act, the wells would collect rainwater runoff from parking lots, roadways, roofs, and other surfaces. The proposed wells would be approximately 10 feet in diameter and 25.5 feet deep, capable of handling an estimated 2,083,780.83 gallons of water per day at peak flow conditions.
The Department of Health has tentatively determined that it will grant approval to construct (ATC) the 43 wells, potentially leading to an operational permit. However, because the area is designated as an underground source of drinking water, the DOH is seeking public comment on the proposed project.
The project site is located on Kilauea Avenue, encompassing multiple parcels identified by TMK numbers: 3rd Division 2-2-040: Parcels # (004, 007, 010, 026, 027, 028, 046, 048, 054, 068, 108, 113, 121); 3rd Division 2-2-041: Parcels # (021, 024, 033, 040, 048, 054, 057, 080, 083, 133, 144); 3rd Division 2-2-042: Parcels # (017, 028, 033, 051, 054, 067, 154); and 3rd Division 2-2-043: Parcels # (022, 026, 027, 033, 038, 040, 044, 053, 080). The geographical coordinates for the project are Latitude: 19° 41′ 41.45″ N and Longitude: 155° 04′ 05.55″ W.
The public is invited to submit written comments or request a public hearing on the proposed approval. All comments and requests must be received by April 30, 2025. They can be submitted in person or by mail to:
State of Hawaii Department of Health Environmental Management Division Safe Drinking Water Branch Uluakupu Bldg. 4 2385 Waimano Home Road, Suite 110 Pearl City, Hawaii 96782-1400
Those with disabilities requiring special assistance to inspect the public notice and related information are encouraged to contact Iris van der Zander, Ph.D., Supervisor of the Safe Drinking Water Branch UIC Program, at (808) 586-4258 at least seven days prior to the comment deadline.
Following the public comment period, the DOH will consider all submissions before making a final decision on the application. If approved, the County of Hawaii will be able to construct and test the wells, ultimately requiring a permit to operate before the drainage system can be utilized.
Copies of the application and supporting documentation are available for public inspection at the DOH address listed above during weekday business hours. Electronic copies can also be requested by emailing SDWB@doh.hawaii.gov. The DOH encourages interested parties to review the documents and voice their concerns regarding this significant infrastructure project.