Laserfiche WebLink
frequent rains and maintained by civic pride. A convenient recycling program keeps <br />the streets litter -free. Planters spilling over with lush foliage and tropic blossoms adorn <br />sidewalks and public spaces. Multi -modal forms of transportation including sampans, <br />Hele -On shuttles and bicycles provide environmentally friendly choices. Hilo Bays <br />glistens in the sun inviting paddlers, surfers, and fishermen to enjoy Hawai'i's clean, <br />protected waters. The Hilo Bay - Wailuku River Shoreline Park & Trail provides a scenic <br />expanse for walking, biking, jogging, picnicking, and other activities. The views from <br />downtown persuade people to slow down, relax, and enjoy the natural beauty around <br />them. Residents and visitors give this fragile environment a profound respect. <br />Preservation of its natural and historic resources is a priority that makes Downtown a <br />special place like no other. <br />3 STRENGTHENING AND SUSTAINING OUR COMMUNITY <br />................... In the year 2025, Downtown Hilo is synonymous with Aloha. <br />The community treasures its rich history, traditions, cultural <br />-- diversity, generational community -based values, and <br />unique character. Public and private institutions reflect <br />+' the same values and collaborate to enhance this family - <br />friendly community with a variety of youth- centered <br />activities and ongoing programs that support lower - <br />income households. A popular public square serves as the <br />gathering place for residents and visitors of all ages who <br />come to enjoy downtown's beautiful parks, theaters, museums, galleries, churches, and <br />cultural events. There they can talk story, catch up with friends, and make new ones. <br />Volunteerism is alive and well, and the community is known throughout Hawaii for its <br />history of civic participation and personal responsibility. Downtown Hilo reflects the <br />beauty, history, and spirit of Aloha of its people and is a model for other communities <br />that want to preserve that small -town feeling of old. In 2025, our hometown — <br />Downtown Hilo —is as it always has been: a wonderful place to call home. <br />4 ENHANCING EDUCATION, CULTURE, AND THE ARTS <br />In the year 2025, Downtown Hilo is a global magnet for <br />education, culture and the arts. It is known as Hawai'i's <br />College Town, with the nearby University of Hawai "i at Hilo, <br />the University's research facilities, and Hawai'i Community <br />College attracting the best minds from across the state and <br />