Aging loading dock at Maunalua Bay finally collapses

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - An aging east Honolulu marine loading dock that’s integral to several commercial boating operations has collapsed.

Witnesses in the area say the dock at the public boat ramp at Maunalua Bay finally gave way at around 10:50 a.m., nearly three weeks after the structure began to droop.

The dock was closed in January after it was first reported that the dock had begun to fail. Signage and caution tape remain are still present on the structure, intended to prevent people from getting on.

A state spokesperson says there are currently five commercial operations that launch from the Maunalua Bay ramp and use the dock. Ocean Safety and the Honolulu Fire Department also use the launch point for ramp for emergency rescue services.

Officials with the Department of Land and Natural Resources say they are looking to install two floating loading docks at Maunalua Bay within the next couple of weeks.

The dock was built at least 30 years ago, officials say, and cables holding the concrete pier in place were deteriorated.

The cost to rebuild the dock is estimated around $350,000. A land department spokesperson says the agency hopes to get that funding from the legislature this year.

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