Kawaihae, Hawaii » A project to improve Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor is moving forward after years of delays caused by environmental concerns.

Delays occurred over potential effects to coral and endangered species, including one of 14 coral species found at the project site, West Hawaii Today reported.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources was granted a federal permit March 21 for the first phase of the more than $4.7 million project.

Improvements include a floating dock, more berthing stalls, more paved parking, a gravel access road, outdoor shower, comfort station and boat wash-down area, said Demo­cratic Rep. Cindy Evans, chairwoman of the House Committee on Water and Land.

"I always believed this project would happen and felt this was the right thing to do, even with the frustration and long process," said Evans (D, Kaupulehu-Wai­mea-Halaula).

The state awarded the project to Hawaiian Dredging Construction Co. in August 2008.

A groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for June, with construction to be completed by 2014.