Friday’s stop at Vidinha Stadium was the second stop at a county stadium for Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami and the Kauai Interscholastic Federation secretary Jason Yoshida in less than two days.
On Thursday afternoon, both gentlemen were joined by Department of Parks and Recreation director Patrick Porter to experience the inaugural Kauai Interscholastic Federation girls’ flag football. On Friday, both leaders participated in the groundbreaking for repairs to the first phase of Vidinha Stadium on the first day the stadium was closed for repairs.
“This project represents collaboration and partnerships, as it has genuinely been a team effort,” said Kawakami. “This is what is possible when everyone comes together for our community. Mahalo to all our partners, workers, and everyone involved who made this possible. Our island will truly appreciate this field of dreams for future generations.”
A press release from the county outlines the $12.2 million project, which includes demolishing and removing the existing field, track implements, and an upgraded scoreboard.
Michael Contrades, who is working with Kylan Dela Cruz of the Department of Parks and Recreation on the project, said part of the upgrades involves installing synthetic turf, often referred to as artificial grass, crafted from synthetic fibers that closely mimic the look and feel of natural grass.
Work will also be done to increase the size of the soccer field to standard size.
The county opted for organic infill made from coconut husk, which helps keep the field cooler and maintains a temperature similar to that of natural grass. The benefits include year-round play without needing to rest the field, significant water consumption reduction, and elimination of the need for pesticides or fertilizers.
Cultural Practitioner Sean Chun officiated, saying the real blessing happens when the Keiki feet touch the new surface for the first time.
The project is contracted by Co-Ha Builders, Inc., dba Applied Surfacing Technology, in collaboration with the Fukunaga &Associates Inc. engineering company. Work starts on March 10 and is estimated to be completed by December 2025.
During this time, Vidinha Stadium will be closed for the duration of the improvement project.
Phase 2 of the improvement project is in the design phase. It includes repairing bleachers, replacing the press box, upgrades to meet the current Americans with Disabilities Act requirements, installing advanced field lighting systems, and remodeling the locker rooms, offices, restrooms, and concession booths.
Updates on Phase 2 will be announced as information becomes available.
For more information regarding the Vidinha Stadium improvement project, contact the Department of Parks and Recreation at parks@kauai.gov or call 808-241-4460.
