Explore the project ideas already submitted and share your perspective. If you see an idea similar to yours, add your take in the comments rather than starting a new one. Your feedback will help shape the Council's FY28 and FY29 funding recommendations. If, after looking, you don't see your idea represented at all, you can submit it below.
Help Shape Hawaiʻi's Green Fee Priorities
Hawaiʻi Island cesspool conversion batches modeled on Hōnaunau pilot
Fund a repeatable batch-conversion model for Hawaiʻi Island cesspools, building on the Green Fee-funded $1 million cesspool pilot at Hōnaunau. Hawaiʻi Island has about 48,600 of the state's roughly 83,000 cesspools, releasing about 29 million gallons of untreated wastewater a day. A UH Hilo dye study at Puakō found sewage from shoreline homes reaching the ocean in as little as 6 hours. What it funds: Batch conversions in two or three more Priority 1 reef areas on Hawaiʻi Island (for example, South Kona, North Kohala/Puakō area, and a Hawaiian Home Lands homestead off the sewer line, such as Panaʻewa or Makuʻu). Neighbors upgrade together, so one engineer, one permit package, and one crew cover a whole street. Batching is how we'll find out how far the cost per home can come down. The full conversion cost for the 100 participating households, so families pay nothing up front. Where a family qualifies for the new state Cesspool Conversion Revolving Loan Fund, that loan lowers what the Green Fee has to cover. Hawaiʻi County has no cesspool grant today; the earlier DOH $20,000 pilot grant has closed. A local coordination team that signs homeowners up, gets the paperwork loan- and grant-ready, schedules engineers and licensed contractors, and reports progress. Public results: homes converted, cost per home, sewage gallons kept out of the ocean, water-quality changes and reef impact, feeding the Green Fee monitoring dashboard. Suggested scale: a fixed goal of 100 homes over FY28–29, with a budget of $7.5 million to $10 million. Where it lands depends on how much batching and economies of scale bring the cost per home down. Hawaiʻi County estimates a single conversion at $30,000 to $70,000, and the budget is set so all 100 homes get done even on hard sites, including coordination, homeowner support, engineering oversight, and water-quality monitoring. The long-term goal is to drive the cost low enough that every conversion can be fully funded by government programs at no cost to the homeowner. Any money not needed goes back to the Green Fee, and cost per home will be reported publicly so the state learns what an island-wide program really costs. Delivered with DLNR, DOH, and DHHL, building on the Hōnaunau pilot. Why the Green Fee: this protects coral reefs and nearshore water that residents and visitors both use, and it turns a 2050 legal deadline that most families can't afford into a funded, step-by-step program. Submitted by ʻĀina Force LLC (Hawaiʻi Island cesspool conversion coordination). Contact: rahul@ainaforce.com, (808) 663-9283.
Centralized 3D digital twin of Hawai‘i geothermal subsurface
Statewide 3D Digital Twin: Geothermal Subsurface Database Build a centralized, 3D digital database of Hawai‘i’s subsurface to safely accelerate Hawai‘i’s transition to firm, 100% renewable energy and lower electricity costs. The project aggregates decades of fragmented geological, geophysical (MT/AMT), and structural data from across the state—with a primary focus on the high heat potential of Hawai‘i Island—into a single, evergreen 3D software model. The Problem: vital data regarding Hawai‘i’s geothermal reservoirs is deeply siloed across federal, state, and academic repositories; without a centralized spatial model, evaluating energy resilience requires expensive, blind physical exploration. The Solution: by harvesting, standardizing, and unifying these public records into a 3D digital twin, the state, researchers, and local stakeholders can visually and accurately evaluate clean energy targets on a computer first. Key benefits stated: immediate readiness and zero impact (100% digital and software-driven—requires zero environmental permitting, ground disturbance, or community disruption); fiscal protection (prevents multimillion-dollar unproductive exploratory wells and low-enthalpy targets, dramatically de-risking future clean power infrastructure investments); and an evergreen public asset (a permanent, continuously updatable digital architecture that serves state agencies, university researchers, and local communities for decades).
Marine energy education workshop and trade show for Hawaiʻi
Advancing Marine Energy Awareness, Education, and Community Engagement Develop locally relevant marine energy educational materials, toolkits, and demonstrations, culminating in a statewide Marine Energy Education Workshop. The workshop would equip educators with tools to integrate marine energy into their curricula, introduce students to emerging career pathways, provide opportunities for researchers to share their latest developments, and engage communities in discussions about the opportunities and challenges of marine energy development. The workshop would be complemented by a Marine Energy Industry Trade Show, providing a forum for industry to showcase emerging technologies, connect with potential customers, and engage directly with the public. Context: Achieving Hawaiʻi's mandate of 100% renewable electricity by 2045 requires looking beyond the state's limited land resources, and as the state pursues the development of ocean industries under Act 186 (SB 2907), increasing public awareness and understanding of marine energy's potential to strengthen energy resilience and mitigate climate change is essential to ensuring informed community participation in this emerging sector. Together, these activities would foster public engagement, knowledge exchange, and collaboration, strengthening the foundation for responsible marine energy development and contributing to Hawaiʻi's growing Blue Economy.
Cruise Hawaiʻi community carpooling platform statewide expansion
Fund the Cruise Hawaiʻi community-based carpooling platform, which connects local drivers with neighbors who need a ride on trips the drivers are already making, with riders sharing the cost directly with drivers so residents save money on both sides of the ride, and the money stays in local communities. A two-month pilot on Kauaʻi brought in 530 sign-ups, and the platform relaunches in November 2026 with a rebuilt app. Visitors can also ride with local drivers as a secondary audience that brings extra income to drivers and keeps rental cars off crowded rural roads. With Green Fee support in FY28–29, the project will: Secure the insurance and liability coverage needed to operate safely at scale. Expand to Maui, Hawaiʻi Island and Oʻahu with locally hired island ambassadors. Launch specialty programs: kūpuna and ʻōpio rides with specially verified and trained drivers designated-driver rides “Grey Skies Blue Skies,” a driver network that becomes an emergency evacuation and supply network when disasters strike Run community outreach at farmers markets, community events, and commuter corridors. Track vehicle miles traveled (VMT) reduced and resident savings, and report them publicly. The project makes getting around more affordable and accessible for residents, cuts traffic and emissions, and adds to Hawaiʻi’s disaster-response capacity. It supports the state’s goal of net-zero transportation by 2045 through a model grounded in aloha and kōkua. Estimated budget: $165,000
Funding Appropriated
Kalaeloa Reef Laboratory Project
Initial Baseline Survey and Years 1-2 of Monitoring for the Kalaeloa Reef Laboratory project. The project will allow HDOT to test the effectiveness of hybrid reef structures to dissipate wave energy before it reaches the shore. This technology can be tailored and replicated for threatened shorelines statewide.
Funding Appropriated
InSAR Satellite Data Collection
Statewide Fire Mitigation Strategy; for statewide InSAR Satellite data collection to identify high fire potential due to dry vegetation and slope stability issues; Request General Funds (MOF A) for the acquisition, processing, and integration of Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) satellite data to enhance wildfire prevention and risk assessment. InSAR technology enables precise monitoring of ground deformation and elevation changes, which can reveal soil moisture loss, vegetation stress, and slope movement. By combining InSAR data with optical and thermal imagery, Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) satellite data can identify areas where dry vegetation and unstable terrain create high risk areas. The resulting data will support targeted mitigation measures, improve resource allocation, and reduce wildfire and post-fire landslide risks.
Funding Appropriated
Pūlama I Ka ʻĀina: Strengthening Hawaiʻi’s Wildfire Preparedness through Technology
Funds to expand early wildfire detection and hazard assessment capabilities across the Hawaiian Islands. Guided by the Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI) Lahaina Phase 3 Report and the directives of Hawaiʻi 2025 Session Laws Act 302, this initiative directly addresses the top priorities for improving statewide wildfire resilience through technology-driven early detection, risk mapping, and real-time situational awareness. The project integrates two key components: 1. Expansion of the AlertWest AI Wildfire Detection Camera Network to provide comprehensive early warning coverage in high-risk areas statewide. 2. Acquisition of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and Data Software to assess wildfire risk, support suppression operations, and enhance recovery and planning.
Funding Appropriated
State adaptation plan
The State of Hawai‘i does not currently have an official, comprehensive Climate Adaptation Plan. This would be Hawaiʻi’s first Climate Adaptation Plan, since currently there is no unified plan that assesses statewide climate risks, identifies cross-sector vulnerabilities, or coordinates adaptation strategies across agencies and jurisdictions. In contrast, other states and cities have adopted formal climate adaptation plans to guide infrastructure investment, land use, and emergency preparedness. A statewide adaptation plan will also help alleviate growing concerns from insurers and bond rating agencies, who now factor climate adaptation and resilience into coverage decisions and credit assessments. By institutionalizing climate adaptation planning, Hawai‘i can strengthen fiscal resilience, protect critical infrastructure, and better prepare communities for a changing climate.
Funding Appropriated
Public-private watershed management, Statewide
Support all public-private watershed partnerships and any coordinating bodies of them, to help sustain fieldwork, outreach and awareness of statewide watershed efforts by supporting positions to implement cohesive strategic planning and implementation across watersheds.
Funding Appropriated
Climate Resilience Crews
This appropriation would establish a scalable, statewide climate disaster resilience workforce that conducts vegetation management, reduces wildfire fuel loads, and maintains defensible space in high-risk areas. Crews would be trained to support both year-round mitigation and emergency readiness, expanding Hawaiʻi’s limited disaster-response capacity as climate-driven risks become more frequent and more severe. Building on recent post-wildfire recovery experience, this investment would create a Hawaiʻi-based workforce capable of addressing priority needs across islands—from hazardous-fuel reduction to community preparedness assessments. Depending on the funding level, the program could field a core crew or scale up to a larger statewide team able to deliver more comprehensive mitigation results. By protecting critical infrastructure and strengthening community readiness, this initiative advances statewide climate adaptation and hazard-resilience goals.
Funding Appropriated
Regulatory and Interpretive Signage Plan and Implementation
This project strengthens conservation by making it easier for both visitors and residents to understand and follow regulations that protect Hawai‘i’s fragile marine and coastal environments. Clear, consistent regulatory signage will ensure that rules around fishing, habitat protection, and marine resource management are visible and enforceable. By mapping, updating, and standardizing every sign in Marine Managed Areas, DAR is creating a reliable system for compliance and stewardship. These updates not only safeguard fish populations and ecosystems but also build long-term accountability for natural resource protection.
Funding Appropriated
Protecting Communities from Wave Energy and Storm Surge by Maintaining Natural Coral Reef Breakwaters
Engaging and educating visitors through community-led outreach is key to reducing tourism impacts and protecting Hawaiʻi’s natural and cultural resources. This program will hire local ambassadors at high-traffic sites such as Pūpūkea MLCD, Hāʻena CBSFA, and ʻĀhihi-Kīnaʻu NAR to provide on-the-ground education about ecological and cultural significance while promoting sustainable visitor practices. A dedicated coordinator will oversee training, partnerships, and program management, ensuring that ambassadors are well-supported and that efforts are consistent and impactful. This approach both safeguards fragile ecosystems and empowers community members to share their knowledge and values with visitors.
Funding Appropriated
Nā Manu ‘Elele Statewide Land Steward Program
The Nā Manu ʻElele Trail Steward Program strengthens sustainable tourism by placing trained local stewards in Hawai‘i’s highest-use, most culturally and ecologically sensitive trail areas. Stewards educate visitors on cultural history, natural resources, safety, and proper trail etiquette - reducing impacts, preventing accidents, and protecting heritage sites. The program has delivered major benefits: safer hiking conditions, improved visitor behavior, preserved resources, reduced emergency responses and crime, and less congestion at popular trailheads, ensuring a high-quality, low-impact visitor experience.
Funding Appropriated
Kui‘a and Honopū Trail Improvement
Request to Add Funds for Kui‘a and Honopū Trail Improvement to develop a comprehensive, sustainable trail system to improve visitor safety, elevate the hiking experience, and protect Hawai‘i’s most sensitive natural areas. Many reserves currently face unplanned access that accelerates erosion, harms native species, and puts hikers at risk. Using proven National Park Service–aligned planning methods, the project will design trails that minimize ecological impact, safeguard cultural and wildlife resources, and provide clear, safe routes for public enjoyment. Deliverables include trail design standards, impact assessments, and a phased implementation plan, ensuring long-term resilience, responsible access, and high-quality outdoor experiences in Hawai‘i’s natural heritage areas.
Funding Appropriated
Hanalei Flood Notification
The Hanalei Flood Forecast and Early Warning Notification System will strengthen infrastructure resilience, protect natural resources, and reduce risks to residents and visitors during flood events on the Hanalei River. The system integrates three components: hydro-meteorologic sensors across the watershed, a real-time hydrologic–hydraulic model predicting river stage and discharge, and a community-based early warning network issuing timely flood alerts. Model forecasts will identify rising water levels along Kūhiō Highway, the main evacuation route for the Hanalei–Hā‘ena region. Integration of National Weather Service (NWS) radar and satellite data will improve accuracy and lead time for flood warnings, enhancing safety and protecting essential infrastructure. Community outreach will build awareness of flood risks, warning procedures, and evacuation routes.
Funding Appropriated
Sustainability and hazard mitigation: Kona and Kohala Hospital
This project mirrors, a submission that we sent to the Federal Emergency Management Agency earlier this year. It seems that these funds have stalled due to issues with the federal government. The focus of this was hazard, mitigation and energy redundancy at Kona community Hospital and Kohala Hospital.
Funding Appropriated
Laupāhoehoe Community Public Charter School Hurricane Shelter
This Project will harden the Media/Band Room of the Laupāhoehoe Community Public Charter School to withstand Catergory 3-4 hurricane conditions through structural reinforcement and storm hardening improvements. This Project is highly leveraged as FEMA is to pay for 90% of the improvements and the $267,494 is the 10% State match. This will provide shelter for the residents in the area in need.
Funding Appropriated
Pilihe‘e Fishpond Restoration
Baseline documentation and permitting for the restoration of Pilihe‘e Fishpond. Support for skilled traditional fishpond practitioners to restore Phase 1 of Pilihe‘e fishpond with the expected benefit of sand accumulation and protection of a critically threatened section of Kamehameha Highway in Kualoa, O‘ahu. Provides an alternative method to shoreline hardening, and expands HDOT's available tools to address Hawai‘i's most critical shoreline and coastal highway erosion issues statewide. If this pilot project is successful, HDOT could replicate this model of support for community fishpond restoration on each island with numerous co-benefits of food, culture, ecosystem health & jobs.