The County of Kaua‘i received a Preservation Honor Award from the Historic Hawai‘i Foundation for its series of interpretive signs placed along Ke Ala Hele Makalae. This sign describes Kapa‘a Town’s pre-contact and modern-day history.

By Staff Reports

(WAILUA) – The County of Kaua‘i recently received a Preservation Honor Award from the Historic Hawai‘i Foundation for its series of interpretive signs that are placed along Ke Ala Hele Makalae, the Path that Goes by the Coast. The series is called the Puna Moku Coastal Trail Heritage Signage.

Pat Griffin, president of the Līhu‘e Business Association, nominated the project for the award.

“We are honored to be recognized for our efforts to promote the preservation and appreciation of the area’s cultural heritage,” said Mayor Bernard Carvalho, Jr. “A big mahalo goes to everyone who’s been involved in this project over the years, including: Calvin Miyahara with KSF Inc.; Doug Haigh, Kaua‘i County Building Division chief; Jim Powell and Michael Dega, Scientific Consultant Services, Inc.; Stan Duncan, PBR Hawai‘i and Associates, Inc. and Tommy Noyes, Kauai Path, Inc.

“And of course, we must also acknowledge the late Mayor Bryan Baptiste and the late Merle Grimes, who served as a consultant, for their key roles.”

A number of topics are depicted in the signage including: the moku and ahupua‘a boundary makers; the Hawaiian names of streams and canals; plants and animals found in the area; and archeological, cultural and historic sites.

Some of the signs describe Hawaiian settlements and pre-contact times. Others provide information about properties that are still in existence such as the Wailua Bridge and Coco Palms Resort, while some refer to enterprises of the past such as Hawaiian Canneries and Kapa‘a Electric Company.

Several signs include current and ancient uses of the area. A few honor notable individuals such as Queen Debra Kapulē and regional mo‘olelo, e.g. the “Sleeping Giant”.

There are more than two dozen signs along the coastal path and a few more will be installed in future phases.

In addition to the interpretive signs, other Kaua‘i organizations were recognized last month by the Historic Hawai‘i Foundation.

Hui Maka‘ainana O Makana, Kaua‘i Division of State Parks, Kuaaina ‘Ulu ‘Auamo and the Limahuli Garden and Preserve, who collaborated on the Hā‘ena State Park Lo‘i Kalo Restoration, received a Preservation Honor Award.

Anniversary recognitions were presented to Grove Farm for its 150 anniversary, Kaua‘i High School, 100 years, and the Kaua‘i Historical Society, 100 years.