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City Secures New Beach Access, Removes Private Gate in Hawaii Kai

Honolulu Department of Parks & Recreation

Surfers, swimmers and more have another access point to Maunalua Bay in Hawaii Kai. A privately-owned gate blocking a now public beach right of way in the Portlock area was removed Wednesday after a court ruled in the city's favor.

"This access way had long been a source of community concern following the private restriction of public access through the corridor," the Department of Parks and Recreation said.

The beach access, near 379 Portlock Rd., was the focus of a lawsuit filed in Circuit Court by the City and County of Honolulu following the approval of Resolution 18-263. The city gained control of the walkway through eminent domain.

While the amount of compensation is yet to be decided, the city was permitted to remove the gate and give the public another walkway to Maunalua Bay.

“The dismantling of the gate and the restoration of public access signifies a win for the community,” said Tommy Waters, chairman of the council. “It also allows, as is required by law, beach access for all O‘ahu residents and beach-goers. It is a great day when the rights of our community are upheld.”

Passed by the council in March 2019, former Mayor Kirk Caldwell allowed the resolution to go into effect without his signature, according to city documents.

Sophia McCullough is a digital news producer. Contact her at news@hawaiipublicradio.org.
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