Renovation to improve security at courthouse

Two renovation projects are beginning this month at Hoapili Hale, the state courthouse building in Wailuku, including moving the security screening station from the entryway.

“We are continuing to make the security improvements proposed by the National Center for State Courts in 2013, after it conducted a comprehensive security review of our courthouse,” said 2nd Circuit Chief Judge Richard Bissen. “We completed phase one in 2015 and now phase two will get underway next week.”

“Fortunately, construction activity will occur after-hours and on Saturdays; however, we wanted the public to be aware of the work as there may be delays in accessing the courthouse as walkways are temporarily rerouted,” said Sandy Kozaki, 2nd Circuit chief court administrator. “We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and thank everyone for their patience and understanding.” Additional security work will occur at the sheriff’s station and other locations in the courthouse.

Renovations to better secure the building perimeter and parking structure will begin later this month. The parking garage will remain open during the first half of the project but will close to the public sometime this summer.

The Legislature appropriated a total of $2.6 million in fiscal years 2017-18 and 201819 for the projects.

“We are very grateful to the Legislature for providing funding for these much-needed security upgrades,” said Chief Judge Bissen.

The entryway project is being managed by the Department of Accounting and General Services. The contractor is F&H Construction.

The perimeter and parking structure project is being managed by the Judiciary. The contractor is Betsill Brother Construction.