The Kapio Newspress

Issue date: 2/8/10 Section: News

Contractors are digging up trenches to reroute the piping of the air condition cooling tower units. The pipes allows for the distribution of cold water to each individual A/C unit in 'Iliahi, 'Ilima and Kauila.

KCC's 'Iliahi building increasingly continues to be an inhospitable learning environment for students and faculty members.

Students and faculty members must endure an additional construction project for the duration of the fall semester.

For the last two years, 'Iliahi has undergone non-stop renovations.

In late 2008, the Holomua Center received a dramatic makeover. For months 'Iliahi 231 underwent extensive renovations. Students and faculty members anxiously awaited the opening of the new center.

In February 2009, there was no trace of the Holomua Center left, as the Kahikoluamea Center opened its doors. With upgraded technology and furniture - among the many changes that were made - members of the KCC community were more than pleased with the outcome of the new center.

However, work to the building was not complete. Shortly following the unveiling of the Kahikoluamea Center, Phase II of the renovation commenced.

Phase II solely focused on the first floor of 'Iliahi. Last summer, the bottom level of the building was completely bulldozed and two classrooms were gutted. The construction is ongoing and access to the building has become limited.

Estimated completion of the building was slated for this month. However, those who pass by the area will notice that it's not nearly in the finishing stages.

According to Keith Kashiwada, KCC's student engagement coordinator, extenuating circumstances have led to the delay of its completion.

Since the construction work begun, students and faculty members have had to endure the loud noises associated with completely renovating a building. The sound of drills and bulldozers are not uncommon during class hours.

"The noise, dust and vibration from the construction is just ongoing," said Mavis Hara, English professor. Hara teaches some of her classes in 'Iliahi.

Students and faculty members who utilize 'Ilahi shouldn't expect the bustle around the building to calm down any time soon. With the launch of a new project, the next few months will only bring about more construction and inconvenience.

Continued...

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