University of Hawaii 24-Inch Telescope Observatory Renovation EA

Location: Mauna Kea, Big Island, Hawaii

Client: University of Hawaii at Hilo, National Science Foundation

Helber Hastert & Fee, Planners prepared a Chapter 343 Hawaii Revised Statutes/National Environmental Policy Act Environmental Assessment to support the renovation of the UH’s 24-inch telescope observatory. Improvements included an upgrade to a 36-inch telescope and renovation of the observatory building. Technical issues included NEPA-required National Historic Preservation Act consultations, careful consideration of potential cumulative impacts, management of construction period impacts and coordination of the joint federal/state EA. The new facility will provide the UHH undergraduate program with an educational facility of exceptional value for training local students for careers in astronomy and jobs in Mauna Kea observatories.