Nonprofit organization Malama O Puna conducted a beautification project in March at the roundabout in Pahoa.
Malama O Puna, led by Rene Siracusa, coordinated a joint effort with County Councilwomen Ashley Kierkiewicz, community members and the Hawaii Police Department in planting potted palms and flowers that were donated by various businesses and organizations. Siracusa received enough plants to beautify one of the medians and is still looking forward to more donations to complete the project.
This is the second stage of this project.
Parties working on the project received numerous amounts of “good job, looking beautiful” and “Mahalo for what you are doing” from passing motorists.
In the first stage of the project, also conducted in March, Malama O Puna coordinated a joint effort with t12 members of the Hawaii Youth Challenge and its staff and the Police Department in removing weeds near the roundabout.
Siracusa obtained the proper permits from the state to have weeds pulled and foliage replanted in three medians around the roundabout. The youths continuously pulled the weeds and filled up bags, which Siracusa disposed of in the green waste at the Pahoa Transfer Station. A police officer directed traffic to ensure the safety of all personnel working in the area.
The weeds will be maintained quarterly by the Youth Challenge.
Siracusa also is working with other business and volunteers to have foliage donated and replanted.