FAQ

What is Waimea 400?
In 2019, the County of Kaua‘i (County) purchased a 417-acre parcel on the mauka side of Kaumualiʻi Highway between Waimea and Kekaha. “Waimea 400” refers to the master planning process for the site. The County is currently seeking community input to create a master plan for the site, which will be a conceptual plan providing a long-term vision for the land.

How will Waimea 400 be implemented?
There are many steps that need to be completed before the master plan can be implemented. The County will need to complete an environmental review of the master plan in compliance with state law (Hawai`i Revised Statutes Chapter 343). Through the community engagement process, priorities will be identified. Potential funding sources or County appropriations will then need to be found to move forward with implementation, or design and construction, as appropriate. Approval of phased implementation will be determined by the County Administration and County Council.

Will I have a chance to have input?
Yes! Community members, especially those who live and work in the West Kauaʻi Region, are encouraged to participate and provide input. To see the results of the engagement opportunities that have already happened (including the initial survey and the first community meetings held in March), please CLICK HERE. Also make sure to SIGN UP FOR UPDATES so that you will be the first to know when the next event is happening. You may also send us any other input you have to our email: waimea400@gmail.com.

Who is working on Waimea 400?
PBR Hawai’i and the County Planning Department are facilitating the master planning process.

What is happening on the site right now?

The land is currently being leased for agricultural use and to develop and store road construction material;
The land and ditches are being cleared of overgrowth; and
A gravel parking area was created on the west side of Waimea Canyon Softball Park to accommodate overflow parking during community events.

What are some of the issues for the site?

Drainage and old ditch infrastructure;
Occasional flooding in lower areas of parcel, such as along the highway;
Water reclamation;
Cost/funding; and
Water to irrigate and service the site.

What are some of the opportunities for the site?

Active and passive park and recreational uses;
Diversified agriculture;
Housing – affordable and farm worker housing;
Mitigation of flooding, drainage, and sea level rise through designs that integrate active and passive recreation, agriculture, and possibly aquaculture;
Open space; and
Pedestrian, bicycle, and equestrian paths.

Are there any known current or planned projects that might impact Waimea 400?
Please check out the informational tabs: HOUSING, RECREATION, AGRICULTURE, and TRANSPORTATION on this website to learn about other projects that may be coordinated with the Waimea 400 master plan.

Where can I get more information about Waimea 400?
If you have a question that has not been answered, please comment in the box below to email us your question. Please be sure to include your name and a phone number and/or email where you can be reached. We will respond to you by either email or with a phone call. You may also call the County Planning Department at (808) 241-4050 with questions.