The heavy rains of late-November/early December wreaked havoc underneath the state Capitol… again. While the area is undergoing repair (for problems first noted over 15 years ago), speculation continues about how best to replace or recreate the pools fronting the Capitol to highlight the original intent (1969) of a building (a very cool one, indeed) that represents a volcanic island, surrounded with palm trees aside the ocean.
As we’ve seen, the conceptual nature of this nature has been offset by the age-old reality of a leaky basin and too much time spent realizing the problem, but not fixing (or budgeting for) it. Thus, here are some whimsical, yet possible, alternatives to address our external Capitol concerns, amid the now-common views of plastic bags, dripping, and clean-ups.
Beach volleyball courts– what better way to celebrate the dynamic sport that Hawai`i considers its own in many ways! And what a great opportunity to drive more people to the structure than to have families and friends playing in the golden sand along Beretania Avenue. We could even charge hourly fees to help raise revenue!
Lawn bowling or bocce ball– though similar in nature, these two extremely fun games would again bring out the masses and provide for oodles of entertainment. Yes, we would have to keep the grass there somewhat immaculate, and that would mean watering in the same area where… oh well, maybe we can use a thick, synthetic, weather-resistant turf?!
Pickle ball courts– Come on, it’s the hottest sport out there right now, and how better to ensure that our local, orthopedic community has plenty of business going forward as baby boomers tweak ACLS and/or Achilles tendons as they literally jump into this craze.
Model car racing– Leagues could be formed and encouraged to bring mini-racer teams to the track(s) on weekends when the kids aren’t scheduled for one of their 45 other activities.
Food truck rally/festival/park– perfect for downtown eaters looking for variety, stocked with a rotating cast of the incredible mobile eateries we now visit throughout O`ahu.
Cement barriers– as a not-so-subtle reminder about the concerns of global warming and its creeping impact on our environs.
A walking loop– why not simply turn this area into a walking trail ringing the Capitol? Include native plants aligned along the route with informative notations about plant life- exercise, socialization, nature and education all together- a Capitol idea!
Think about it…