A Second Chance at a First Impression

On September 17, Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park will begin construction of a permanent entrance station facility. The new structure will replace the temporary kiosks erected in 1986 when entrance fees were first collected.

The new building will provide visitors with "a sense of entry." The structure will be reminiscent of those built in the park in the 1930's by the C.C.C. (Civilian Conservation Corps). The lower walls will have a stonework façade, while the rest of the structure will be framed of wood with alternating 12" and 6" lap siding and topped by a corrugated metal hip roof.

The new entrance station will accommodate two lanes of in-coming traffic, be accessible to people with disabilities, equipped with a restroom, and wired for the latest in digital communications and security.

The construction contract was awarded to Isemoto Contracting Company of Hilo. The project is expected to cost $388,000 and take six months to complete. Isemoto Contracting Company was also awarded a State contract to improve rainwater drainage and install two overhead street lamps at the Crater Rim Drive and Highway-11 intersection.

During construction, a single temporary kiosk will be located between the current entrance station and the Kilauea Visitor Center. Signage and orange traffic cones will help guide visitors through the construction zone. The public is asked to drive carefully, heed posted signs, and watch for pedestrians.

While construction activities may cause some delays in traffic flow during the busiest times, the project will ultimately improve visitor service and safety. It will also enhance the working conditions of the park entrance station staff who greet the thousands of people who visit Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park each day.