Those who think civic engagement is pointless in these polarized times should look at the battle over Ala Moana Beach Park, which has played out as a testament to municipal democracy.
The park’s future has been in contention since Mayor Kirk Caldwell in 2015 announced a $1.2 million revitalization study by a New York consultant.
Alarms went off among devoted park users after Caldwell touted shiny new features for the 84-year-old “people’s park,” including possible commercial concessions for food, drink and surfboards, New Age unisex restrooms and a promenade along the beach that would displace curbside parking.
Users objected that the plan seemed more for the rich residents of luxury condos across Ala Moana Boulevard than local parkgoers.
Through petitions and turnout at public hearings, they made clear they like Ala Moana Park the way it is and want revitalization focused on sprucing up what’s already there and then keeping it maintained.
And for the most part, they’ve prevailed in asserting ownership of their park.
Caldwell, who created a stir when he said he’d like a beachside eatery to enjoy a meal and beer while watching the sunset, backed away and promised the only food concessions will be the two L&L stands already there.
The unisex potties gave way to fixing existing restrooms after public objections, and a welcome resurfacing of walking paths on Magic Island was colored brick red after park users protested plans for garish blue.
Drawing the most public ire is a proposed beachside promenade and picnic area that would displace cherished curbside parking used by beach-goers to easily unload umbrellas, folding chairs, blankets, coolers and kids.
Opponents got more than 1,100 signatures on a petition and took their case the City Council.
Caldwell said he’ll finish an environmental impact statement on the promenade, but emphasized he’s heard the public concerns and “nothing has been finalized.”
Key Council members promised that none of the $20 million approved for Ala Moana improvements in 2018 or the $8 million requested by the administration for 2019 will be allocated to the promenade.
Caldwell has enjoyed some wins, with most park users applauding his efforts to revitalize park lawns, plant more trees, widen the beach and remove coral rocks, fill potholes, hire park rangers and increase the maintenance crew.
City decision-making is a process of push and pull, and in this case concerned citizens have been effective at fending off changes they don’t like without standing in the way of a refresh that Ala Moana Park sorely needs.
Caldwell, meantime, will likely get a few of his shiny new attractions, such as sand volleyball courts and a children’s playground, as well as credit for restoring the luster of this urban jewel after his predecessors let it fall into disrepair.
Reach David Shapiro at volcanicash@gmail.com.
