COM 0492.001 1996-1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

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a~ Maurice A. Richard, Hawaii Regional Development Manager October 3, 1989 Page 3 resulted in a general policy of support for alternative energy research and development. The establishment of Geothermal Resource Subzones, where exploration and development are allowable activities, acknowledges the potential higher use of the lands in volcanic rift zones which are generally of marginal value for agriculture and other cultural uses, Indigenous geothermal resources will be developed for the general social and economic well-being of the residents of Hawaii. 2. The proposed geothermal development activities would not unreasonably burden public agencies to provide roads and streets, sewers, water, drainage, school improvements, and police and fire protection. There should be negligible impact on public infrastructure and services. Personnel associated with the drilling and operations will be small in number. Most of the estimated 23 construction and 19 operations and maintenance jobs at the proposed project will be filled by local employees. Peak construction employment is estimated to be as high as 100. These people will utilize existing facilities and will not require additional services that are not already provided by the County. Traffic through Pahoa will increase especially during construction. An estimated 35 vehicle round trips per day aze expected during wellfield and power plant construction. During normal power plant operations, the traffic generated will fall to about 10 to 18 vehicle round trips per day. These added vehicle trips should not add significantly to the existing traffic levels of 2000 to 3600 vehicles per day at the intersection of the Pahoa to Ralapana Road (Hwy 130} and the Pahoa to Rapoho Road (Hwy 132). Drilling and power plant operations will require no provisions from public agencies in the form of roads dr--streets, sewers, drainage, or school enlargement or improvements, and only the normally afforded police and fire protection will be expected. Any necessary access roads will be constructed by the applicant, and water for drilling will be purchased from the Department of Water Supply from their existing distribution system or the applicant will develop its own water supply.