HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0865.001 1996-1998
l4 WASTEWATER DIVISION
Department of Public Works Mailing Address: 25 Aupuni Street, Rm. 202
108 Railroad Avenue - Hilo, Hawaii 96720 Hilo, Hawaii 96720-4252
(808) 961-8338 - Fax (808) 961-8644
F '
June 16, 1998 C.
HONORABLE CHAIRMAN AND MEMBERS
HAWAII COUNTY COUNCIL
25 AUPUNI STREET
HILO, HI 96720
SUBJECT: RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING COUNTY TO ACTIVELY SUPPORT
THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE PACIFIC AQUACULTURE AND
COASTAL RESOURCES CENTER
As requested in the Public Works and Parks Committee meeting on 6/15/98, we are transmitting
the following for your information:
• Draft Environmental Assessment
• Executive Order for Hilo Sewer Treatment Plant site
• Excerpt from HAR 11-62-23.1(h) indicating requirements for decommissioning of
abandoned treatment works
Should you have any questions, please contact the undersigned at 961-8338.
/C
PETER J. BOUCHER, P.E.
Chief, Wastewater Division
Enclosure
f
_ JUN 1 6 1998
A>'v, aq 'I
DRAFT "
F,
DRAFT
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Old Hilo Wastewater Treatment Plant
Conversion
Kalanianaole Avenue and Pua Avenue
Hilo, Hawaii
TMK: 3-2-01-011-004
Prepared for
County of Hawaii
Department of Public Works
Division of Wastewater Management
by
M&E Pacific, Inc.
Honolulu, Hawaii
June, 1998
IMF-
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 APPLICANT ...................................................................................................................1
2.0 APPROVING AGENCY 1
3.0 CONSULTATION LIST .................................................................................................1
4.0 PROJECT OBJECTIVE AND NEED 2
5.0 GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE ACTION'S CHARACTERISTICS 2
5.1 Technical Characteristics .....................................................................................2
5.2 Economic Characteristics 5
5.3 Social Characteristics 6
5.4 Environmental Characteristics ..............................................................................7
6.0 SUMMARY OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT 7
6.1 Location and Access 7
6.2 Topography and Climate 8
6.3 Infrastructure 8
6.4 Land Use Zoning 8
6.5 Soil 8
6.6 Water bodies ........................................................................................................9
6.7 Natural Hazards 9
6.8 Archaeological and Historic Sites 10
6.9 Flora and Fauna 10
7.0 MAJOR IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ................................................10
7.1 Short-term Renovation Related Impacts 10
7.2 Freshwater and Seawater Management 11
7.3 Economic 11
8.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED ACTION .......................................................11
8.1 No Action 11
8.2 Alternate Sites and Actions ................................................................................11
9.0 LIST OF PERMITS 12
10.0 DETERMINATION ......................................................................................................13
12.0 REFERENCES ..............................................................................................................15
i
I
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure I Regional Location Map
Figure 2 Tax Map Key Location Map
Figure 3 Old Hilo WWTP Site Map
Figure 4 Center Location & Plan Map
Figure 5 Flood Insurance Rate Map
Draft Environmental Assessmer June, 1998
Old Hilo Wastewater Treatment , ant Page 1
1.0 APPLICANT
d The applicant for the proposed modifications to the Old Hilo Wastewater Treatment Plant
(WWTP) is the County of Hawaii, Department of Public Works. The abandoned sewage
treatment plant site is owned by the State of Hawaii. According to §343-5 of the Hawaii Revised
d Statutes (HRS), the preparation of an environmental assessment (EA) is required due to the use
of state lands and county funds [§343-5(1)]
d
2.0 APPROVING AGENCY
The approving agency for a determination of significance for this EA is the County of Hawaii,
Department of Public Works.
r
3.0 CONSULTATION LIST
id The following parties have been either contacted or their guidelines consulted for the preparation
of this environmental assessment:
w Federal Government:
US Army Corps of Engineers
d State of Hawaii:
Department of Lands and Natural Resources
Historic Preservation Division
Forestry and Wildlife Division
Aquaculture Development Program
Land Use Division
University of Hawaii at Hilo
College of Agriculture
Sea Grant College Program
County of Hawaii:
Department of Public Works
Community:
Keaukaha Hawaiian Homelands Community Association
d
Draft Environmental Assessment June, 1998
Old Hilo Wastewater Treatment. nt Page 2
4.0 PROJECT OBJECTIVE AND NEED
The County of Hawaii, Department of Public Works constructed a new wastewater treatment
facility for Hilo, located approximately one mile east of the Hilo airport. The new facility replaces
the prior facility located at Puhi Bay in Keaukaha (Figure 1 and 2). The prior facility, the Old Hilo
WWTP, is proposed for conversion into an aquaculture center, Pacific Aquaculture and Coastal
Resources Center (PACRC). This conversion will involve the demolition and removal of most of
the old mechanical and electrical equipment on site, and the retention and renovation of most of
the existing structures. This EA is principally concerned with the demolition and removal
components of the total effort required.
The conversion of the Old Hilo WWTP and the development of PACRC are proposed by the
University of Hawaii at Hilo (UHH) and the University of Hawaii Sea Grant College Program
(UHSGCP) in cooperation with the County of Hawaii (COH), the Aquaculture Development
Program of the Department of Lands and Natural Resources (DLNR), the Department of Public
Works and the local Hawaiian community. The primary goal of PACRC is to provide a focus for
the sustainable development of entire Keaukaha coastline. The Keaukaha coastal area is located
on the eastern side of island of Hawaii, stretching about eight (8) miles from Hilo Bay to Kings
Landing. Since the closure of the last sugar plantation in 1996, economic activity in this area has
been severely depressed with high unemployment rate. Although the area is rich of natural,
human, cultural and educational resources, and various infrastructure, many of these resources are
currently under utilized. One opportunity for the community to revitalize itself is provided by the
decommissioning the Old Hilo WWTP and the development of PACRC. Joined with the abundant
resources available in Keaukaha and its adjacent areas, PACRC will benefit the local communities.
Furthermore, the technologies developed and tested at the PACRC can be applied to enhance the
vitality of other coastal areas and communities.
The development of PACRC will be accomplished through several phases with an approximate
duration of seven (7) years. The conversion with basic renovation of the Old Hilo WWTP is the
Phase 1. Most buildings and facilities at site will be converted with basic renovation into
classrooms, laboratories, offices, hatchery facilities and aquaculture tanks. The subject property
y will become the physical core of the PACRC, and serve as a teaching, research and demonstration
facility for aquaculture and marine science programs of the University of Hawaii at Hilo (UHH)
and the University of Hawaii Sea Grant extension program. In the remaining phases, the Center is
expected to be expanded onto adjacent vacant land, and the Center's facilities and activities
increased as funds become available.
5.0 GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION
5.1 Technical Characteristics
Details of the existing site layout are shown in Figure 3. The County of Hawaii will retain the
land on which the new Pua Street pumping station is located, while the abandoned treatment plant
site to the west of the pumping station will be relinquished for transfer to the University of
Draft Environmental Assessment June, 1998
Old Hilo Wastewater Treatment mt Page 3
Hawaii. In addition, a small parcel on the east side of the pumping station will be relinquished for
transfer to the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to add to their park located on that side of
the site.
The County will also retain existing easements and establish new easements for their sewer lines,
drainage and access to the pumping station, as shown on Figure 4. This figure also shows a
planned layout of the PACRC facilities on the abandoned treatment plant site.
The proposed project will focus on equipment demolition and removal in preparation for
converting the decommissioned wastewater treatment plant into a teaching and research facility
for aquaculture and marine science. Buildings and treatment facilities at the site will be stripped of
the old plant equipment and renovated for the Center's use. Unwanted structures will be
demolished and removed, as described below. Future connections are planned to a HIG deep
seawater well on the adjacent land parcel to the west to provide cold seawater. Two wells with
their pumping facilities are also planned to be installed on site to provide cool seawater and
freshwater for the Center. The tentative locations of the two wells are shown in Figure 4. In
addition, approximately twenty-eight plastic tanks of 15-foot diameter will be installed at various
locations throughout the subject property. Those tanks are purposed for culturing aquatic
organisms, including fish, mollusks, crustaceans, and algae or seaweed. Each tank will be
equipped with both freshwater and seawater piping systems.
The structures proposed for removal or conversion as part of this project are.
Administration Building
The administration building will be kept and renovated. This building consists of a water quality
laboratory, a rest room, a chemical storage room, an administration office, and a pump control-
panel room. The building is in a moderately good condition. Small quantities of lab chemicals
were left in the storage room. Asbestos containing materials may exist in the floor tiles of the
control-panel room.
Due to its generic nature, basic renovation will be needed for this building, including the removal
of asbestos containing materials, chemicals and electrical control equipment, refurbishment of the
administration office, the laboratory and the control-panel room for the Center's use. The
restroom and storage room inside the building may accommodate the Center users in its present
form, or with moderate modifications to satisfy the Center's requirements.
Screen, grit and distribution chambers, and aerated channel
The concrete screen, grit, and distribution chambers and the aerated channel were for wastewater
preliminary treatment and conveyance to the succeeding treatment facilities (Figure 3). The
screen, grit channel and other machinery will be removed. All chambers and the channel will
demolished to a depth of at least 3 feet below ground level. It is planned to construct a
greenhouse at this location, with aquaculture demonstration tanks proposed to be put both inside
and outside the greenhouse.
Draft Environmental Assessment June, 1998
Old Hilo Wastewater Treatment Plant Page 4
Clarifiers
Two clarifiers on-site remain as the most visually identifiable structures of the sewage treatment
function. These substantial structures are 80 feet in diameter, and constructed of 12-inch thick
concrete with footings and piers up to 24-inch thickness. Although they are more than 10 feet
deep, only one-third of the tank bodies are above the ground. Each clarifier has approximate
375,000 gallons of storage capacity. The sludge scrapers inside and the catwalks on the top are
corroded and close to collapse.
The two clarifiers are proposed to be converted into two large outdoor aquaculture tanks, one for
seawater organisms and the other for freshwater organisms. The scrapers, the catwalks and the
clarifier center well will be dismantled and removed, and the tanks cleaned. Some of the inlet and
outlet features may be modified in anticipation of the requirements of their new use.
Digestion Tanks
The anaerobic digestion tanks are two 60-foot-diameter concrete cylinder tanks located makai of
the primary clarifiers. Approximately two-thirds of the tank structures, which are about 29 feet
deep, are above ground. Both tanks have sludge, supernatant and gas piping systems, and floating .
covers. Each tank was able to contain approximately 300,000 gallons of sludge and supernatant.
Significant amounts of sludge still remain inside the digesters. Following sludge removal and tank
emptying, demolition will include dismantling and removal of the covers, piping systems, and tank
internals. The empty tanks will be thoroughly cleaned in preparation for their modification. Sludge
disposal will follow DOH approved practices.
Chlorination Building and Chlorine Contact Tank
The chlorination building is located immediately makai of the administration building. It is
primarily an open concrete structure with a chlorinator room attached, and a concrete crane-rail
supporting frame crossing the driveway. The enclosed areas of the structure can be adapted to
provide storage space and the covered area is to be converted into an outdoor classroom after the
walls and roof are refurbished. The machinery inside will be removed except the existing 2-ton rail
crane which may be retained for the Center's use. The exterior rail of the crane and its support
columns will be dismantled and removed as they are on the land to be retained for Pua Street
Pump Station (Figure 3).
The open chlorine contact tank outside the chlorination building is a channelized concrete box,
50-foot long and 40-foot wide with two concrete sluices inside. The structure is below the
ground, and has a capacity of approximately 60,000 gallons. A broken flume is left in the tank,
and vegetation has grown at the bottom of the tank. The tank is proposed for use as a fish waste
treatment unit. The sluices and the flume will be dismantled and removed, and the vegetation
cleaned out in preparation for refurbishing the tank for its new function.
o ,
Draft Environmental Assessmen June, 1998
Old Hilo Wastewater Treatment Plant Page 5
Sludge Pump, Sludge Control and Sludge Centrifuge Buildings
The sludge pump building is located next to the primary clarifiers, and the sludge control building
is located next to the digestion tanks. Both buildings are of similar structure, a ground-level
platform, and a lower-level pump room with concrete walls and jalousie windows. Four (4)
abandoned sludge pumps, motors, piping and a hand crane system are located in the pump room
of the sludge pump building. A sludge heater, two (2) heat exchangers, pumps and various piping,
and a crane system are in the sludge control building. The sludge centrifuge building makai of the
chlorine contact tank is a larger structure compared to the sludge pump and control buildings. It
has concrete walls with sheet metal roof and sidings. The building is filled with abandoned
motors, pipes, and sludge dewatering equipment.
All machines, equipment and pipelines inside the buildings will be dismantled and removed in
preparation for the buildings being refurbished, including repair of the damaged walls of the
sludge centrifuge building. The sludge pump building and sludge control building are planned to
be refurbished as machinery rooms, and also for storage and shop use. A wet lab, approximately
twenty feet by eighty-four feet (20' x 84'), is planned to be installed between the sludge pump
building and the sludge control building. Another greenhouse for use as a shrimp hatchery,
approximately thirty-two feet by eighty-four feet (32' x 84'), is planned to be added the makai
side of the sludge control building. A fish hatchery will be installed in the sludge centrifuge
building.
Pump Station Building and Its Associated Structures
The abandoned pump station next to the Pua Street Pump Station is a three-floor concrete
structure, with two of the three levels below ground. The existing facilities inside include
electrical panels, overhead cranes, ventilation fans, three (3) sewer pumps and seven (7) large
valves. A wetwell with four (4) hatch covers is outside the building. Other miscellaneous
underground structures near the pump station include two (2) emergency pumpout pits, and
sewer manholes. The pumping station is on the land which will be retained for the Pua Street
Pump station (Figure 4), and will be demolished along with the associated structures. Some
portions of the below ground features may be retained for use to hold an odor control system for
the Pua Street Pump station.
Underground Storage Tank
An abandoned underground storage tank (UST) is located near the entrance to the Sludge
Control Building, at the mauka corner of the structure. This UST will be sampled to determine
contents, emptied, cleaned and removed per DOH guidelines and requirements. If any of the tank
contains have leaked into the ground, appropriate spill response actions will be taken.
5.2 Economic Characteristics
The funds initially designated by COH for demolition and landscaping of the subject property will
be used primarily for the demolition and removal of the unwanted components and structures, and
y Draft Environmental Assessment June, 1998
Old Hilo Wastewater Treatment nt Page 6
the cleaning and coating of facilities to be retained for the proposed conversion. Funding in
excess of this amount will be provided by the University of Hawaii.
The preliminary project cost for the demolition and conversion is estimated to be in the range of
$700,000 to $1,500,000, much of which will be spent on local labor and for contracts with local
contractors and suppliers.
5.3 Social Characteristics
Aside from Pua Street Pump Station at the site, the community will gain an aquaculture center
and a bit more land for the DHHL park in the place of the abandoned sewage treatment plant.
Benefits resulting from the conversion of the wastewater treatment plant include:
Benefits to the Keaukaha Hawaiian Community
• The community members will be trained in various aspects of aquaculture. The Center will be
a resource of information and guidance for the development of small and medium scale
aquaculture farms. This can improve both nutrition and income within the community.
• The Center will support the development of the local aquaculture industry by providing
' juvenile fish for sale at nominal cost to local fish farmers.
• Information related to sustainable development of coastal resources will be available to the
local community.
• Jobs will be created in the local community through construction, renovation and operation of
the Center, plus any aquaculture farms which start up as the result of the Center's activities.
Benefits to the University of Hawaii
• Teaching facilities for the UHH undergraduate programs in aquaculture and marine science
will be substantially expanded.
• Research Facilities of the UHH for aquaculture and marine science will be improved. The
Center will enable the UHH to conduct laboratory studies on locally-important saltwater
fishes and shellfish.
• It will become possible for the University personnel to conduct cold-water aquaculture
research in cooperation with researchers at National Environmental Laboratory Hawaii
Associates.
• Office facilities for the Sea Grant Pacific Program, which has activities throughout the US-
affiliated Pacific islands, will be consolidated and enhanced.
Benefits to the Surrounding Community
• Services provided by the Center to the Keaukaha Hawaiian community will also be available
to other communities throughout the State.
• The Center's technical services will be available to state and federal agencies involved in
' fisheries management.
Draft Environmental Assessment June, 1998
Old Hilo Wastewater Treatment nt Page 7
• Five to ten permanent jobs will be created at the Center. Contract research will also result in
at least two to four temporary jobs at the Center.
• The local economy will benefit from the creation of temporary jobs for the Center renovation
and development.
• The DHHL park will benefit from the additional land it will receive.
Benefits to other Coastal Areas -
• Via training programs, internships and conferences, Sea Grant's Pacific Program will link their
cooperative coastal development activities, including aquaculture in the U.S.-affiliated Pacific
area, to the Center.
• The Center will conduct aquaculture feasibility studies on potential culture species in
cooperation with Center for Tropical and Subtropical Aquaculture, the Hawaii Aquaculture
Association, the Pacific Aquaculture Association, and other Pacific aquaculture efforts.
• Pacific island students attending UHH will be able to utilize the Center for studies and learning
activities focused on sustainable coastal development that will be transferable to their home
island situations.
5.4 Environmental Characteristics
Conversion of the old wastewater treatment plant to an aquaculture center will positively impact
the environment. Most of buildings and facilities on the subject property are in a state of disrepair.
Abandoned equipment are rusted and broken, some of them on the verge of collapse. The old
plant is, in short, an eyesore with no useful purpose. To convert the treatment plant to the Center,
the abandoned equipment will be removed from the site, most buildings and treatment facilities
will be renovated and the old pump station building superstructure will be demolished. The new
PACRC after renovation and development will provide a more attractive view of the Puhi Bay
area at that location. The additional land for the DHHL park will allow expansion of parking at
Puhi Bay (Figure 3). In addition, knowledge and technologies provided by the Center will enhance
the local community's abilities of rationally utilizing and managing the coastal resources and
benefit the coastal and marine environment.
6.0 SUMMARY OF THE AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
6.1 Location and Access
Figure 1 shows the regional location of the Old Hilo Wastewater Treatment facility. It is located
at 1079 Kalanianaole Avenue on Puhi Bay in the Keaukaha section of Hilo on the island of
Hawaii. The site is identified on Figure 2 as the 4.194 acre parcel Tax Map Key 3rd division 2-1-
11:4. The site is makai of Kalanianaole Avenue and can be accessed through a gate facing
Kalanianaole Avenue.
Draft Environmental Assessment June, 1998
Old Hilo Wastewater Treatment _int Page 8
6.2 Topography and Climate
The city of Hilo lies at the base of the lower southeastern slopes of Mauna Loa at elevations
ranging from sea level at Hilo bay to 600 feet above mean sea level (MSL) along the urban fringe.
The wastewater facility lies along the shoreline of Hilo Bay. Land slopes in this area are nearly
flat.
Orographic rainfall predominates in Hilo as wind currents force moisture-laden clouds to
condense as they move upward along the mountain slopes. Rainfall averages approximately 130
inches per year along the shore. Average temperatures range between 65 and 80 degrees, and
persistent tradewinds average seven miles per hour with diurnal shifts in wind direction.
6.3 Infrastructure
Electrical power, telephone communication utilities, sewer and water lines are tied into the subject
property.
6.4 Land Use Zoning
The project site is classified as Urban, and zoned as Open area. It is a government exempt parcel
owned by State of Hawaii, and made available for use by the County of Hawaii by Executive
Order. The facilities on the project site are currently out of service, except the new Pua Street
Pump Station and associated sewers and outfall pipelines that are located on the site and which
will be retained by the County (Figures 3 and 4).
Kalanianaole Avenue borders the project site to the southeast. The remainder of the property is
surrounded by the state owned undeveloped Hawaiian homelands to the southwest, Puhi Bay and
beach park to the north and Keaukaha Beach Park to the northeast. The nearest residential areas
are located across Kalanianaole Avenue. The nearest business facility is Texaco Bulk Plant which
is next to the west side of the state owned undeveloped Hawaiian homelands.
6.5 Soil
The soil at the project site is classified as a Keaukaha series, extremely rocky muck (USDA,
1973). It is a well drained, thin organic soil that overlies pahoehoe lava bedrock. This soil
generally follows the topography of the underlying pahoehoe lava. The topsoil is a layer of dark
brown mulch that is highly permeable and strongly acidic. Due to high permeability, runoff from
the soil is medium and the erosion hazard is slight. Average annual soil temperature ranges from
seventy two (72) °F to seventy four (74) °F.
Draft Environmental Assessment June, 1998
Old Hilo Wastewater Treatment , .it Page 9
6.6 Water Bodies
-r- Groundwater beneath the project site is identified as the Hilo aquifer system within the Northeast
Mauna Loa aquifer sector (Mink, 1993). The aquifer system is a voluminous basal lens that
extends at least four miles inland from the shoreline. The aquifer is noted for having an enormous
groundwater flux. The flux from fresh water springs has been measured at 150 mgd. The
hydraulic gradient has been measured at 5 feet per mile, or 1 per mil.
The Hilo aquifer system is classified as an irreplaceable source of fresh drinking water. The
aquifer system is currently used as a drinking water source, and the vulnerability to contamination
is high (Mink, 1993). The groundwater flow direction in the area is towards the ocean. The fresh
groundwater discharge along the coast is many times larger than surface flow.
The subject property lies on the shoreline of Puhi Bay. The area has vast ocean water resources.
¦ The average temperature of surface seawater 75 °F. The seawater at a hundred feet below the
ground is 68 °F, and at 3400 feet deep is about 40 °F.
. 6.7 Natural Hazards
The Old Hilo WWTP facility is susceptible to various types of hazards including coastal flooding,
tsunami inundation, volcanic activity and earthquakes.
The site lies in a special flood hazard area inundated by floods from 100 year storm events. The
site is designated by FEMA to be Zone VE (Figure 5). This means that the property is subject to
coastal flooding combined with wave action. Base flood elevations range from 18 to 20 feet on
the property.
Hilo, with its exposure to a crescent shaped bay and orientation towards the Pacific seismic belt is
very susceptible to tsunamis. Forty-three destructive tsunamis have reached Hilo since 1819.
Frequency analysis by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers led to development of a frequency
analysis curve and tsunami inundation zones. Figure 5 reveals that while inundation of 25 feet at
the shoreline may only happen once or twice every hundred years, waves of two feet may occur
20 times in a hundred year time span. The abandoned treatment facility lies on the shoreline
within the inundation zone.
The most common volcanic hazard in Hawaii comes from lava flows. Generally, there is very
little direct risk to human life, but risk to property can be great. The greatest danger from
volcanic activity for the Hilo area is from the northeast rift zone of Mauna Loa. Since 1880, most
lava flows from Mauna Loa stopped prior to reaching the urban areas of Hilo. However, the
danger of future lava flows reaching and destroying any part of Hilo is present at all times.
The entire island of Hawaii lies in seismic zone 3. The risk of damage from earthquakes is
considerable for all areas of the island. Earthquakes may be expected in the Hilo area in the
future.
oi'
Draft Environmental Assessment June, 1998
Old Hilo Wastewater Treatmen int Page 10
6.8 Archaeological and Historic Sites
The existing wastewater facilities are not significant historic structures. Due to the development
of the subject parcel, it is unlikely that any significant historic sites would be present on the parcel.
6.9 Flora and Fauna
The 1980 "Wastewater Facilities Plan, Hilo District" issued by the Department of Public Works
listed all the birds and mammals found in the Hilo area. This report noted that endangered species
of birds are found in either forested uplands or near ponds such as the Waiakea, Kionakapuha or
Lokoaka. These endangered birds included Dark-Rumped Petrel (Pterodroma phaeophygia
sandwichensis), Hawaiian Hawk (Buteo solitarius), Hawaiian Gallinule (Gallinula chloropus
sandwichensis) or the Hawaiian Coot (Fulica americana alai). The only endangered mammal,
the Hawaiian Bat (Lasiurus cinereus semotus) is generally found throughout the Hilo area. Based
on this report and a visual observation, no endangered animal species are expected to be found on
the site.
7.0 MAJOR IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
7.1 Short-term Renovation Related Impacts
All proposed demolition and renovation activities will be conducted within the project property
boundaries. Most of the abandoned machines and equipment will be removed from the property.
There are no major earth moving operations associated with this project.
The dust, noise and traffic are expected to be the main conversion related impacts, since all
conversion activities will be in the vicinity of residents. However, these nuisances are temporary
and abatement measures will be undertaken during renovation. Dewatering is not anticipated for
renovation.
Routine operations at the Center are not expected to materially effect the existing level of traffic
and noise in the area. The Center's operations will take place 24 hours per day, just as was the
case for the Old Hilo WWTP and the new Pua Street Pumping Station.
A Phase I environmental site assessment (ASTM practice El 527) of the subject property has been
performed which determined that no hazardous substance contamination exists that may affect the
demolition, renovation and conversion. Possible underground contamination from the abandoned
UST will be investigated, as a part of the UST removal activity. If the UST has leaked, the
appropriate spill response activities will be undertaken, per DOH guidelines and requirements.
Draft Environmental Assessmen' June, 1998
Old Hilo Wastewater Treatment _ ..,nt Page 11
7.2 Freshwater and Seawater Management
The Center will approximately need total of 1.5 mgd freshwater and seawater pumped from the
wells installed at site and the deep seawater well of the adjacent Institute of Geology. It will also
discharge approximately 1.5 mgd of used freshwater and seawater effluent from its aquaculture
and marine science facilities. The discharges will contain mainly organic waste products and high
salinity.
The groundwater beneath the project site is the Hilo aquifer system which has an enormous
groundwater flow. The site is in the shoreline of Puhi Bay, and is rich with seawater resources.
The intakes of 1.5 mgd groundwater and seawater will not have substantial impact on either the
groundwater or the seawater resources.
The Center is proposed to have less than 23,000 pounds of fish on site at any one time. Rotary
microscreens are proposed for removing solid fish wastes from the used freshwater and seawater
discharged from the Center. It is estimated that the Center will produce a total wastewater
volume of 1.5 mgd. On-site treatment will be provided by the Center. All applicable permitting
requirements and procedures will be followed for this wastewater discharge.
7.3 Economic
Approximately five million dollars ($5,000,000) will be brought into the local economy through
the renovation and development of the PACRC. This is a one-time infusion of funds. The
recurring PACRC operations and maintenance, including research and training, will bring six
hundred and fifty thousand dollars ($650,000) per year into the economy.
8.0 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED ACTION
8.1 No Action
The project property is no longer in service, except Pua Street Pump Station at the site. If no
action is taken, the buildings and facilities will continue to decompose and rust away. The land
where the plant is located will be left idle.
As expressed in the Environmental Impact Statement for the new Hilo Wastewater Treatment
Plant, the structures in the old treatment plant were to be demolished and the site to be converted
into a community park.
8.2 Alternate Sites and Actions
The proposed Center is an alternative to the initial plan of demolishing certain structures at the
project property. Selection of an alternative site will have negative economic consequences. There
Draft Environmental Assessmen' June, 1998
Old Hilo Wastewater Treatment ..ant Page 12
are no extra funds budgeted for building such a Center. The funds originally -designated for
demolition of the plant are an important financial source for building the Center at the project
property.
Aside from the original plan of demolishing the treatment plant and converting to a park, there
were a number of other options of improving the site. These options include:
• Demolition of all structures except the administration building with operation and maintenance
by the Department of Parks and Recreation;
• Demolishing all structures except the administration building, which would be turned over to
the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands;
• Offer remaining portion of site not used for wastewater management purposes to the
Department of Hawaiian Home Lands.
The proposed plan of developing an aquaculture center at the project site is deemed as the best
option based on the following factors:
r • The funds originally designated for demolition will be used as well to prepare the site for
conversion and renovation to the Center. In addition, funding from other sources such as
UHH is also available for the Center development.
• The Center will be used by UHH. The operation, maintenance and related funds will be
provided by UHH.
• Joined with the resources available at the area, the Center will benefit the local Hawaiian
community, the University of Hawaii, the surrounding community and other coastal areas.
9.0 LIST OF PERMITS
N This planning effort recognizes the eventual need of project proposals to obtain proper permits
before construction. These will include:
State of Hawaii:
Well Construction Permit (Commission, on Water Resource Management)
Pump Installation Permit (Commission on Water Resource Management)
Water Use Permit (Commission on Water Resource Management)
NPDES Permit to Discharge into Ocean (DOH Clean Water Branch, if necessary)
NPDES Permit Construction Dewatering Permit (DOH Clean Water Branch, if necessary)
County of Hawaii:
Building Permit (Department of Public Works, Building Division)
Demolition Permit (Department of Public Works, Building Division)
Sewer Discharge Permit (Department of Public Works, Wastewater Management
Division, if necessary)
Draft Environmental Assessment June, 1998
Old Hilo Wastewater Treatment , it Page 13
10.0 DETERMINATION
In accordance with Chapter 343, Hawaii Revised Statutes, this Environmental Assessment has
characterized the technical and environmental nature of the project, identified potential impacts,
and evaluated the potential significance of these impacts.
It is anticipated that the proposed project will not significantly impact the environment. Therefore,
a Negative Declaration is anticipated, and an Environmental Impact Statement will not be
required for this project. This determination is based on the significance criteria listed in §11-200-
12 of the Environmental Impact Statement Rules. Specifically, these significance criteria are
addressed below:
1. The proposed project will not result in an adverse commitment, loss, or
destruction of any natural or cultural resources. The proposed site has already been
fully developed for its previous function of wastewater treatment.
2. The range of beneficial uses of the environment will not be curtailed.
3. The project will not conflict with the state's long-term environmental polices or
goals and guidelines as expressed in Chapter 344, HRS, and any revisions thereof
and amendments thereto, court orders or executive orders.
4. The proposed project will not substantially adversely affect the economic or social
welfare of the community or state. The project will improve the social welfare for
the community by providing a teaching and research center for the sustainable
development of coastal resources.
5. The project will not substantially adversely affect public health.
6. The project will not involve substantial adverse secondary impacts, such as
population changes or effects on public facilities.
7. The project will not involve a substantial degradation of environmental quality.
8. The project does not involve a commitment for larger actions and will not result in
significant cumulative effects upon the environment.
9. The project will not substantially affect a rare, threatened or endangered species,
or its habitat.
10. The project will not detrimentally affect air or water quality or ambient noise
levels. Short-term impacts will be minor and will occur during the basic renovation
phase.
Draft Environmental Assessmer June, 1998
Old Hilo Wastewater Treatment riant Page 14
11. The project will not affect an environmentally sensitive area such as a flood plain,
tsunami zone, erosion-prone area, geological hazardous land, estuary, fresh water,
or coastal waters. The project property is located in a flood plain and tsunami
zone.
12. The project does not affect identified scenic vistas or view planes. The project will
improve scenic view-by converting old corroded buildings and structures into new
research facilities.
13. The project does not require substantial energy consumption.
Draft Environmental Assessmer June, 1998
Old Hilo Wastewater Treatment ..ant Page 15
12.0 REFERENCES
Documents reviewed during preparation of this Environmental Assessment:
Department of Public Works, 1980. Wastewater Facilities Plan, Hilo District.
FA Federal Emergency Management Agency, 1988, Flood Insurance Rate Map, Hawaii County,
Hawaii, Community-Panel Number 885 of 1900.
10 Federal Register. July 1, 1988. Secondary Treatment Regulation. 40 CFR Part 133.
Foote, D.E., Hill, E.L., Nakamura, S., Stephens, F., 1973, Soil Survey of island of Hawaii, State
of Hawaii: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service.
Mink, J.F., Lau, L. S., 1993, Aquifer Identification and Classification for the Island of Hawai'i:
Groundwater Protection Strategy for Hawai 'i.
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administration
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chambers 1 1 I •M!• I
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PARCEL FOR
PARCEL FOR UHH COH PARCEL DHHL PARK
Old Hilo Wastewater Treatment Plant FIGURE 3
MIZE Environmental Assessment SITE MAP
Pacific Il~c. T.M.K.: 3-2-01-011: 004 (not to scale)
I
• LEGEND
r~,.
imp Approximate property boundary among
COH
, UHH and DHHL
[hatchery
I Easements Required
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demonstration tanks i \
PACIFIC ES C STREET
OASTAL RESOURCES CENTER NTER UMP STATIO PARK--+
(UHH) (COH) (DHHL
Old Hilo Wastewater Treatment Plant FIGURE 4
Environmental Assessment Center Location
k Plan Map
Pacific Inc, T.M.K.: 3-2-01-011: 004 (not to scale)
LEG, D
SPECIAL FLOOD HAZARD AREAS INUNDATED BY 100-YEAR FLOOD
ZONE VE Coastal flood with velocity hazard (wave action);
base flood elevations determined.
Flood Boundary
Boundary Dividing Special Flood Hazard Zones. and
Boundary Dividing Areas of Different Coastal Base Flood
Elevations Within Special Flood Hazard Zones.
513 Base Flood Elevation Line: Elevation in Feet
p o°
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0
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\ LIHIKAI STREET
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KEOKEA
9TH o
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FIGURE 5
lk Environmental Assessment FLOOD INSURANCE
acific, Inc. T.M.K.: 3-2-01-011: 004 RATE MAP
1. ,'.r
~.~eru#iue Order ~Et.
,*rttino Aiiih e ~~ttnd for 'uhlir 11nrpnimi
igg this Extrunar (4lrber, 3, thr unbrrliigneh, (Qaorrilar of thr f~tatr of Rawaii,
by virtue of the authority in me vested by Section 103A-11, Revised Laws of
Hawaii 1955, as amended, and every other authority me hereunto enabling, do
hereby order that the public land hereinafter described be, and the same is,
hereby set aside for the following public purposes:
FOR HILO SEWER TRSATMZXT PLANT SITE, to be under the
control and management of the County of Hawaii.
HILO 5L'WER TREATMENT PLADTT SITE
Keaukaha, Waiakea, South Hilo, Hawaii
Beginning at the south corner of this parcel of
land, the east corner of United States Military Reservation
for River and Harbor Improvement (Governor's; Lxecutiva order
176), and on the northwest side of Kalanianaole Street, the
coordinates of said point of beginning referred to Government
Survey Triangulation Station "WMAV being 5045.87 feet North
and 16738.75 feet Bast, as shown on Government Survey Regis-
tered Map 3017, thence running by azimuths measured clockwise
from True Souths-
1. 151° 58' 580.00 feat along United States Military
Reservation for River and Har-
bor Improvement (Governor's
Executive Order 176)1
2. 267" 30' 133.69 feet along the remainder of Hawaiian
Home Land of Keaukaha;
3. Thence along the remainder of Hawaiian Homo Land of Roaukaha,
on a curve to the right with a
radius of 380.00 fact, the
chord azimuth and distance be-
ingt 287' 30' 259.94 feed
4. 307' 30' 360.34 feet along remainder of Hawaiian
Home Land of Keaukaha;
5. 61° 56' 470.60 feat along the northwest side of
Kalanianaole Street to the
point of beginning and can-
taining an AW%& OF 4.154 ACRES.
TOt4Js'TkER With Basements "A" and "B", thirty (30.00)
feat wide for sanitary sewer purposes, as shown on plan
attached beroto and made a part hereof and more particularly
(o described as follows4
ZASEMMWT "A`s Being a portion of the gawaiian Howe Land of
Ksaukaha.
Beginning at the southeast corner of this casement
on the northeasterly boundary of Hilo Savage Treatment Plant
Site, the coordinates of said point of beginning referred to
Government Survey Triangulation Station "HALM" being 5521.99
feat North and 16011.65 feat Bast, as shown on Government Sur-
vey Registered Map 3017, the=* running by azimuths measured
clockwise fray True Souths-
1. Along Hilo Sewage Treat=snt Plant Site, on a curve to the
left with a radius of 380.00
feet, the chord azimuth and
distance being: 113• 32'
52.35 feet:
2. 148° 30' 93.56 meet to highwatrar mark at seashores
3. 'Phone along higbwatelr mark at seashore, the direct azimuth
and distance being: 1730 53'
3040 69,96 festt
4. 328' 30' 193.66 feat to the point of beginning and
containing an AREA OF 4,846
SOUARS FEET.
EASaMN" "H": Being a portion of the Sawaiian a Land of
xeaukaba.
Beginning at the south corner of this aaawsent and on
the northeast boundary of kilo Sewage Treatment Plant Site, the
coordinates of said point of beginning referred to Government
Survey Triangulation station "HALAx" being $335.77 fact North
-2-
f ~ r> 2.3rP2
and 17003.85 !feet East, as shown on Government Survey !registered
Hap 3017, thence running by azimuths measured clockwise from
True Gouths-
1. 127' 30' 30.14 foot along 1311o Zawaga Treatment Plant
Biter
2. 211• 58' 78.00 foot to higYwrater mark at seashore;
3. Thence along highwate+r mark at e®ashore, the direct azimuth
and distance beings 288• 20'
30.87 feetr
4. 31' $8' 88.19 feet to the point of beginning and
containing an APIA OF 20523
SQUARii UBT.
6U8UCT to disapproval by the legislature by
two-thirds voter of either the Senate or the House of
Represantatives or by majority vote of bath, in any
regular or special session nest following the date of
this rxacutiva Order.
3111 Wiftirim 394prraf, I have hereunto set my hand
and caused the Great Seal of the State of HHY aii to be affixed.'
Done at the Capitol pt Honolulu this .......1 day of
Qty Nineteen Hundred and .49....
o Approved as to form: Governor of the State of Hawaii
Deputy Attorney Genera]
Proofed by s U~ vated 1
S EA tied
0 0° '
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O O yt~'6u dB[9 o'I .
L ` OSLO. \ `m~' ee°~a+µ
F ~
E
S r s3'C9 1~~ SEWER EASEMENT "A"
` ,°BSz. o~ I~ (30.0o ft: wide)
-0 13
0 0)
N'lO of ~a~T``~ vsst t~ p
0 N
NPR y
u ty
1 U ' o ,mJ2 \
4 w y'L'9y s9~i
r
N C l ~i 6G 3y ~ O \ ~ ~0.
1- - 8 C ~c, aG
H 1 LO SEWAGE a`TREATMENT o Px~ oo sp"
T PLANT SITE
4.154 Acs. J 80~^ 0~9'
_ A 0O hi9h ~srz'Z q'hofe
5995.77 N t Wig'' ~p e71 -
' 17063.85 G 0j0 ~
HALAL"
a C
O
1 5045.87 N k ~j \
CC* SG' IG738.79 E.
sso.00 HALAI " m \
C1°56' .470,00.x•
15L• 53'
a<n• So' 29.00 e41• 56' za~w.09
KALA N IANAOLE STf2E5 ET
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z
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d
HILO SEWER TREATMENT .PLANT SITE
AND SEWER EASEMENTS WAND '84
Keaukaha, Waiakea, South Hilo, Hawaii
c- c•3a3z Scale, I inch • loo feet
IG, Sakamo-}o '
'AX MAP z-I-II SURVEY DIVISION ' pq
DEPARTMENT OF ACCOUNTING AND GENERAL SERVICES
S. F. No. 1 5083 1 STATE OF HAWAII I
§11-62-23.1
owner's engineer whether or not the treatment works is
meeting and will in the future meet the applicable
effluent requirements of (section) sections 11-62-26[.]
and 11-62-27. If the treatment works is not meeting
the applicable effluent requirements, the owner shall
submit to the director a corrective action report
containing:
(1) An analysis of the cause of the treatment
works' failure to meet the effluent
requirements and an estimate of the scope of
the corrective action necessary to enable the
treatment works to be in compliance;
(2) A schedule for undertaking the corrective
actions; and
(3) A date by which the treatment works shall be
in compliance with the applicable effluent
requirements.
(g) Treatment works shall be designed with safety
in mind and comply with appropriate provisions of the
occupational Safety and Health Standards of the State
of Hawaii, Department of Labor and Industrial
Relations' -
(h)" Upon abandoning, retiring or permanently
discontinuing use of a treatment works, the owner shall ,
render it safe by removing it or filling it completely
with earth, sand, gravel or similar non-organic matter.
All above ground portions of the treatment works shall
be rendered safe and vector free. Electrical
components shall be disconnected at the circuit breaker
or source and all access openings sealed. Injection
wells shall be abandoned in accordance with [Chapter',
chapter 11-23.
ft-ij The owners of proposed and existing treatment
works or the owners' duly authorized agents shall
perform the following tests and record keeping:
(1) Analysis of dissolved oxygen, pH and 30
minute settleability of the contents of the
aeration tank, chlorine residual of the
effluent and total daily flow at least once
per week;
(2) Complete logs of operation and maintenance
performed, repairs, volume of sludge wasted
and name of sludge hauler/disposal firm if
applicable; and
62-30