The Department of Parks and Recreation celebrated the completion of major upgrades at Waiākea Uka Park in Hilo.  

The main elements of the approximately $12 million park improvement project were the construction of a new 4,400-square-foot community center, increased on-site parking, a walking path, and a realigned ballfield with a new concession building, comfort station, dugouts, and scorekeeper’s booth.

With a capacity of approximately 180 people, the new community center is fully equipped with folding tables and chairs to support a variety of uses and will be an important facility for senior and keiki programs, community meetings, and various public gatherings.

When needed, the community center also stands ready to serve the public during certain natural disaster situations.

In addition to the new facilities, improvements were also made at the Stanley Costales Waiākea Uka Gym, including interior and exterior painting, refinishing of the court’s surface, and other needed repairs. The children’s playground was also fenced in for safety, and the playground safety surfacing was rehabilitated.

The project was funded with funds from the County of Hawai‘i ($5.4 million) and State of Hawai‘i ($6.6 million). Construction began in May 2023.

Photo credit: Office of Mayor Kimo Alameda