RES 393 Draft 01 2024-2026 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Project Information * 43. Project Title EXHIBIT A Maintenance and Beautification of the Rene Siracusa Pahoa Roundabout 44. Project Start Date 10/31/2025 45. Project End Date 06/30/2026 46. Please select all areas of Hawai'i Island where the project will be administered, delivered, and implemented. Puna 47. Please select the district of the Council Member from which you would like to apply for Contingency Relief Funds. Council District 4 *48. In 2,000 characters or less, describe the project. Since the Renee Siracusa Pahoa Roundabout was installed in 2016, Malama O Puna has played an instrumental role in maintaining the landscaping of the roundabout and splinter islands. The organization has an ongoing agreement with the Hawaii State Department of Transportation (HIDOT) to conduct the maintenance and work within its right-of-way. The original landscaping done by the state deteriorated quickly after the roundabout was installed, and Malama 0 Puna stepped up to improve the area, as it serves as the entrance to Pahoa Village. The original landscaping was replaced with an assortment of ti plants of different colors, bromeliads, and flowering plants. Due to the lack of irrigation and the exhaust fumes from constant circling traffic, it is challenging to keep plants alive, so Malama O Puna is constantly replacing them and keeping the outer circle of the faux bricks free from weeds and mold. At the request of Malama O Puna, the HIDOT poured concrete in the skinny splinter islands, leaving only the wide section facing the center of the roundabout for plantings. Malama O Puna has also been receiving painted rocks to brighten up the roundabout, created by the keiki of Black Sands, which the organization also supports for their community garden and keiki programs. The sides of the roundabout are maintained periodically by subcontractors who mow and use a weed whacker. Due to the trash and little fire ants harbored in the tall palms on the Pua Park side of the roundabout, some equipment work is needed to clean out the tops of those palms. Additional nursery plants are needed to refresh the plantings on a regular basis. A large tote capable of holding 250 gallons of water is required to keep the area irrigated and the faux brick surface free of black mold. Malama 0 Puna has appointed a new Project Manager to supervise the work being done. *49.501(c)(3) Mission Statement Malama O Puna is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit, volunteer service organization whose mission is to protect community resources to maintain a safe and healthy community through its environmental education, hands-on projects, and advocacy. * 50. In 1,000 characters or less, explain how the 501(c)(3) is connected to the project. Malama 0 Puna originally evolved from the East Hawaii Chapter of the Outdoor Circle in 2000. It became a separate nonprofit organization, allowing it to focus on beautification projects that positively impact community well-being. Keeping a presence at the Renee Siracusa Pahoa Roundabout has helped build Malama 0 Puna's reputation as a steward of public places and protector of open spaces. It is also a good project to engage community volunteers, and assistance in the roundabout landscape maintenance has been provided by various civic groups, Youth Challenge, and nonprofits, helping to instill a sense of community pride and resiliency. The use of painted rocks has helped local youth take ownership of a project that benefits the entire community. * 51. Please upload a completed CRF Grant Budget Form. CRF Budget Form (Excel Version) complete.xlsx