Green Fee funding for Waimea streamside trail expansion

Fund the expansion of Ke Ala Kahawai O Waimea (Waimea Trails & Greenways) as a high-impact, community-driven project that fulfills all three statutorily mandated funding pillars under the Green Fee: environmental stewardship, climate resilience, and sustainable tourism. The project provides the Hawaiʻi Green Fee Advisory Council with a high-impact, community-driven project that directly fulfills all three statutorily mandated funding pillars under the Green Fee. As prioritized in the Waiʻulaʻula Watershed Management Plan, expanding this streamside corridor along Waikoloa Stream combines non-motorized transportation with vital streambank stabilization, erosion mitigation, and riparian buffer restoration to safeguard mauka-to-makai water quality and native aquatic habitats. The project fulfills Hawaiʻi 2050 Sustainability Plan and Aloha+ Challenge targets for Smart Sustainable Communities (SDG 11) and Life on Land (SDG 15) by expanding non-vehicular mobility, reducing ground transportation emissions, and integrating green stormwater infrastructure. An eco-friendly recreational trail that enhances resident livability while managing visitor footprints embodies the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority's commitment to destination management and natural resource protection. Investing in Waimea Trails & Greenways aligns with the Aloha+ Challenge Review Report's core funding recommendation: deploying Green Fee revenues to protect natural infrastructure, expand public green spaces, and build lasting community resilience.