It's Your Money: $125,000 On A Model Airplane Field In Kailua

A Kailua city project used $125,000 to pave a runway for a model airplane field, drawing scrutiny amid broader budget-cutting pressures. The work targeted the 10.6-acre Kawai Nui Model Airplane Field at the western edge of Kawai Nui Marsh, Kailua, where a new asphalt runway replaced part of the long-used grass area. Construction began June 15 and was scheduled to last two weeks; by June 19, the runway appeared finished but a sign indicated it could not yet be used. The city said the funds came from a discretionary budget linked to City Council member Esther Kia‘āina, after Hawaiian Electric power lines had obstructed flying routes. The $125,000 contract was awarded to Alakona Corp. via the lowest bid among pre-approved contractors.