Ke‘ehi Small Boat Harbor in Honolulu will undergo a substantial upgrade starting on November 17, 2025, aimed at mitigating the impacts of sea level rise. This $3.9 million project will address both coastal inundation and the gradual sinking of the land, ensuring the harbor remains accessible and functional for boaters and visitors alike.
The planned improvements involve significant structural changes. Workers will add grade adjustment walls and transport fill material to elevate the west side parking lot. The upgrades will also eliminate potholes through new paving and enhance drainage systems to prevent flooding during rain events. According to the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), this will be accompanied by the installation of new fencing and signage to facilitate navigation within the harbor.
The project carries a budget of $3,925,757 and is expected to be completed by February 27, 2026, provided all goes according to plan. Efforts will be made to minimize disruptions, allowing water activities to continue during construction. However, visitors should prepare for potential detours and reduced parking availability due to the construction activities.
The construction will be managed by Ke Nui Construction, LLC, which has committed to working closely with harbor staff and regular visitors to mitigate inconveniences. While the promise of “limited impacts” is reassuring, the DLNR advises that visitors might want to allocate extra time for entering and exiting the area as adjustments are made.
This upgrade is part of a broader initiative to adapt local infrastructure to the challenges posed by climate change. Enhancing the resilience of coastal areas like Ke‘ehi Small Boat Harbor is essential for protecting both the environment and the economy in Hawaii. The improvements not only aim to secure the harbor’s functionality but also seek to bolster community confidence in facing future environmental challenges.
