PD BACKGROUND REPORT (PL-SMA-2024-000048)

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protection or preservation. Species of shorebirds may be found along the shoreline, however that is outside the project area. 17. Archaeological Resources: Although no archaeological survey of the site was conducted for this application, it is highly unlikely that any historic sites would be found as the property has been completed graded and developed with a single-family residence and related improvements and is located within the well-developed residential subdivision. 18. Cultural/Historic Resources: The shoreline area located adjacent to the subject parcel is currently used for coastal gathering and fishing by native Hawaiians, however, use of the project site itself for traditional and customary rights is unknown. The parcel has been cleared, graded, and developed in the past and therefore it would be unlikely that the site would serve any traditional purpose or use. There is an existing 5-foot-wide shoreline access easement located on the southern side of the parcel that allows for public access from Ala Heiau Rd.; this access will be maintained and opened and will be improved by the proposed project. The proposed project will not interfere, alter, or block lateral shoreline access in this area. 19. Scenic and Open Space Resources: The construction of a new single-family dwelling is anticipated to have minimal impacts on scenic views, especially since the site has been previously developed with structures for some time. The proposed development is consistent with the surrounding developed parcels which includes numerous 2-story dwelling structures built along the shoreline. Open space resources are primarily the shoreline area makai of the project site, which is comprised of a basalt bench and rocky coastline, and the ocean which is utilized by both native Hawaiians and the public. 20. Recreation/Public Access: A 5-foot-wide pedestrian shoreline access pathway is located on the south side of the project parcel that permits access to the shoreline from Ala Heiau Rd. along the property boundary to the shoreline area. The coastline in this area is utilized for fishing and other gathering practices,with lateral shoreline access available in this area. The existing shoreline public access located on the project site and the lateral shoreline access located makai of the project site will not be impacted by the proposed activities. -4-