DPR begins master planning for Kāʻena Parklands; allows interim community‑run dirt track on limited parcel

The Department of Parks and Recreation briefed the Honolulu committee on Aug. 19 about ongoing master planning and an interim recreational use at the former Navy Barbers Point/Kailailoa parklands. DPR said it will solicit a consultant in fiscal 2026 to prepare a master plan and a National Environmental Policy Act–compliant environmental assessment; the master plan will guide long‑term park improvements across seven parcels that total roughly 400 acres. Interim use and limits: As an interim measure the National Park Service authorized the city to allow temporary motorized recreational activities on Lot 13060 for up to four years or until the master plan’s capital improvements are ready to proceed, whichever comes sooner. DPR clarified the interim permission forbids permanent capital improvements and limits the use to informal, participatory (not spectator) motorized activity. DPR said any permanent motorsports facility would require amending the federal program of utilization and completing an environmental assessment. Community partnership for dirt track: DPR said the interim dirt track proposal is a public‑private partnership with the Oʻahu Motorsports Association and community volunteer Lee Cobian, who described an approximately quarter‑mile oval dirt track and related informal bike areas located away from residences. Cobian and supporters argued the site is already in a high‑noise area (near helicopter operations and industrial uses) and said similar island facilities operate with community stewardship and low complaints. Opponents, including neighborhood board representatives, raised concerns about proximity to homes, noise, trash and the need for clear written operating rules and management agreements. Master plan goals and constraints: DPR staff said master planning will address archaeology, cultural resources, infrastructure limits (water/sewer), and the possibility of parks amenities such as pools and campground upgrades; DPR also noted Navy environmental remediation remains ongoing and the city will hire technical consultants to advise on Navy investigations and remediation work. Next steps: DPR will solicit consultant services for the master plan and environmental review in fiscal 2026 and will require the interim track operator to produce a management plan that addresses hours, operations, porta‑potty provisions and community outreach. The committee asked DPR to ensure robust community engagement as the master plan and interim use details are finalized.