The federal government has awarded Hawaii nearly $400,00 to improve outdoor recreation in the islands.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources wants to use the funds to match state money paying for park improvements at the Ka Iwi State Scene Shoreline on Oahu and repairs to the Makupuu Lighthouse trail and lookouts.

Officials also aims to spend some of the money to pay for improvements to Polihale State Park on Kauai.

The department said Friday the projects will answer high demand for the repair of aging and heavily used recreational facilities.

The department expects to recommend the projects to the Board of Land and Natural Resources. If the board agrees, the state will refer the plans to the National Park Service for final approval.