January 11, 2011
Contributed by Thomas Yoshida
This is the first time since 1997 that a Hawai'i organization has been recognized by the APA for a national award, which was selected from hundreds of nominations.
North Shore Plan: From Pa'ala'a to Kapaeloa is a recipient of the "APA's 2011 National Planning Excellence Award for Innovation in Sustaining Places." Over an 18-month period beginning in 2007, Kamehameha Schools collaborated with Honolulu-based planning and design firm Group 70 International. In framing the goals and objectives of the plan, the team consulted with more than 30 small and large community groups that included küpuna (elders), local farmers, business owners, community associations, schools and churches.
From these discussions, and grounded by the Schools' Strategic Plan and five values, Kamehameha selected seven catalyst projects. These projects were selected because they embody KS' five values, represent a cross-section of land types within the North Shore area, and could be implemented in the near term.
The seven catalyst projects include the restoration of the Loko Ea fishpond, agriculture water system improvements, development of alternative energy including solar, wind and hydro, improvements to commercial areas in Haleiwa Town and residential development. Six of the seven catalyst projects are actively being implemented in stages of permitting, design, and construction.
In honoring Kamehameha for the Innovation in Sustaining Places award, the APA recognized the North Shore Plan's collaborative community outreach and its unique values-based framework.
"This plan incorporates the five values of education, environment, economics, culture and healthy community which guide our decision making at Kamehameha Schools," noted Kirk Belsby, Kamehameha Schools vice president of Endowment. "It integrates educational programs at the restored Loko Ea Fishpond and improves water resources that nourish agricultural lands. The Plan has environmental returns that protect and restore native habitats and endangered species on our mauka lands, while creating economic opportunities for "country style" commercial areas.
"We believe the Plan captures the community's desire for open space, agricultural lands and ocean resources – all while sustaining the North Shore's unique rural lifestyle and values."
The APA will honor Kamehameha and other awardees at its annual National Conference in Boston, Massachusetts in April.
Kamehameha Schools is a private, educational, charitable trust founded and endowed by the legacy of Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop. Kamehameha Schools operates a statewide educational system enrolling more than 6,900 students of Hawaiian ancestry at K-12 campuses on O'ahu, Maui and Hawai'i and 31 preschool sites statewide. Approximately 37,500 additional Hawaiian learners are served each year through a range of other Kamehameha Schools' outreach programs, community collaborations and financial aid opportunities in Hawai'i and across the continental United States.
The American Planning Association is an independent, not for profit educational organization that provides leadership in the development of vital communities. APA and its professional institute, the American Institute of Certified Planners, are dedicated to advancing the art, science and profession of good planning – physical, economic and social – so as to create communities that offer better choices for where and how people work and live.
American Planning Association Press Release
Media Contact: Dawn Farm-Ramsey, (808) 523-6363
Kamehameha Schools’ policy is to give preference to applicants of Hawaiian ancestry to the extent permitted by law.
