Kailua-Kona, Hawaii – The Hawaii State Department of Health (DOH) is considering approving the construction of a rainfall runoff drainage injection well in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. The proposed project, submitted by the County of Hawaii Department of Public Works, aims to improve drainage along Hienaloli Road by managing rainwater runoff from the roadway, yards, and fields.
According to the DOH notice issued on May 5, 2025, the proposed injection well will be located near TMK (3) 7-5-017:003, with approximate coordinates of 19° 37′ 37.9″ N Latitude and 155° 57′ 47.6″ W Longitude. The well is designed with a maximum diameter of ten feet and a depth of twenty-four feet. It is expected to handle intermittent and variable flow rates, peaking at approximately 2,700 gallons per minute.
The DOH has tentatively determined that granting the Approval to Construct (ATC) is appropriate, which could lead to an operating permit for the well. The injection well is proposed to be constructed in an area designated as an underground source of drinking water.
The public is invited to comment on the proposed determination or request a hearing regarding the ATC issuance. All comments and requests must be submitted in writing by June 4, 2025, to the DOH Environmental Management Division, Safe Drinking Water Branch at 2385 Waimano Home Road, Suite 110, Pearl City, Hawaii 96782-1400.
Requests for a public hearing must detail the issues to be raised and comply with Hawaii Administrative Rules, Section 11-23-15. The DOH Director will determine if a public hearing is warranted based on the level of public interest.
Copies of the application and supporting documentation are available for public inspection at the DOH office during business hours or by contacting the Safe Drinking Water Branch at SDWB@doh.hawaii.gov for an electronic copy.
The DOH will consider all comments received by the deadline before making a final decision on the ATC. If approved and all legal requirements are met, the County of Hawaii can proceed with construction and testing. A permit to operate will be issued upon successful completion, allowing the operation of the drainage injection well subject to permit conditions and legal requirements.
For further information or special accommodations due to disability, contact Iris van der Zander, Ph.D., Supervisor of the UIC Program, at (808) 586-4258 at least seven days before the comment deadline.