There’s good reason to applaud the plan for a new neighborhood park in Waikiki — and cause for concern as well.

The city is partnering with the Rotary Club of Honolulu to convert a derelict lot in the core of the urban resort district into what’s being called Centennial Park for the civic club’s 100th birthday.

Nobody can deny that Waikiki would absolutely benefit from a public green in the midst of the high-rise jungle. And the blueprints for the gated park depict a pleasant space.

But we have to hope that the city and its private partner takes care to keep it from becoming a lure for homeless encampments. That gate, paired with oversight, ought to help.

Nonprofits and homeless get some relief

State monies will make up the difference for seven Oahu nonprofit groups whose federal funding was cut in April, which ensures the organizations helping the island’s most vulnerable formerly homeless populations will stay afloat through Valentine’s Day.

If nothing else, the short reprieve will allow the nonprofits to seek permanent funding.

Kudos to Gov. David Ige’s administration for redirecting $611,160 of the $5 million that Aloha United Way is administering for homeless- related services under an emergency contract with the state. The initiative helps about 300 clients who will continue to receive services.