The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority (HTA) and O‘ahu Visitors Bureau have recently announced a groundbreaking preservation project that aims to protect and restore some of the most iconic cultural sites on the island of O‘ahu. The project, known as the Monumental Preservation Project, is a joint effort between the two organizations to ensure that these important sites are preserved for future generations to enjoy.
The Monumental Preservation Project will focus on five key cultural sites on O‘ahu, including the historic Iolani Palace, the sacred Pu’u o Mahuka Heiau, the ancient Hawaiian fishponds at He’eia, the historic Waialua Sugar Mill, and the iconic Diamond Head State Monument. These sites were chosen for their cultural significance and their importance to the history of the island.
The project will involve a variety of preservation efforts, including structural repairs, landscaping improvements, and educational programming to raise awareness about the importance of these sites. The HTA and O‘ahu Visitors Bureau are also working with local community groups and organizations to ensure that the project is carried out in a way that respects and honors the cultural heritage of the sites.
The Monumental Preservation Project is part of a larger effort by the HTA and O‘ahu Visitors Bureau to promote sustainable tourism and protect the natural and cultural resources of the island. By preserving these important cultural sites, the organizations hope to attract visitors who are interested in learning about the rich history and heritage of O‘ahu, while also ensuring that these sites are protected for future generations to enjoy.
In a statement, HTA CEO John De Fries emphasized the importance of preserving these cultural sites for the benefit of both residents and visitors. “These sites are not just tourist attractions, they are an integral part of the cultural identity of O‘ahu,” De Fries said. “By working together to preserve and protect these sites, we are ensuring that future generations will be able to experience and appreciate the rich history and heritage of this beautiful island.”
The Monumental Preservation Project is set to begin in the coming months, with a completion date slated for early next year. The HTA and O‘ahu Visitors Bureau are hopeful that this project will serve as a model for future preservation efforts on the island, and that it will inspire other organizations to take action to protect and preserve the cultural heritage of Hawai‘i.
