The state Department of Transportation celebrated the completion of renovations at Hilo Harbor, which include a newly completed Pier 4 cargo wharf project and improvements to the Pier 1 cargo yard and passenger terminal.

The projects were designed to increase operational space and cargo handling efficiencies at the harbor, as well as provide a more pleasant environment for cruise passengers.

“These projects are more than brick and mortar improvements, they’re about providing opportunities for our people and meeting the needs of our communities,” said Gov. David Ige in a press release. “We are ensuring the viability of our commercial harbor system and encouraging a healthy job market that includes work opportunities in transportation, maritime related trades, hospitality and tourism, not to mention the local consultants and contractors the state has employed to complete the job.”

At Pier 1, cargo yard capacity expanded with the removal of a shed structure, plus there is new asphalt concrete pavement, fire protection and lighting in the new cargo yard. There are also renovated restrooms, a new security room, fire alarm system and additional fire sprinklers.

In addition to the newly constructed Pier 4 wharf structure, an additional berth space was created to accommodate the growing general maritime and cruise industries. A new interisland pier replaces the aging Pier 2, which was originally constructed in the early 1920s.