A massive 1-acre ‘world-class’ playground with zip-lines, splash pad, a cafe, and more is being proposed to Ala Moana Beach Park. The playground was approved without a proper review of the playground’s design and without any public input.
Many considerations need to be identified and resolved before the design is approved. Mālama Moana sent out a letter of concern to various stakeholders, regarding an opportunity for public review in the hopes that the local people of Hawai‘i may voice their concerns and ideas.
Here are some of our concerns:
Zip-lines pose a safety risk to the keiki.
The splash pad poses water quality concerns if the water is not clean and the keiki drink it or get the water on their skin.
Who will pay for the operation and maintenance? Costs have not been identified to ensure that there is sufficient funds to operate and maintain the playground’s ‘world-class’ features, including zip-lines, splash pad, security cameras, and safety lighting.
Local park users have expressed their concerns to keep the Park’s character the same and have no desire to upscale the Park with modern design and added structures. The proposed playground does not fit the existing character of the Park and does not match the Park’s natural setting.
The ocean and open-green spaces is already a playground for the keiki. Is there really a need for a ‘world-class’ playground at Ala Moana Beach Park?