The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources announced dredging work at Wailoa Small Boat Harbor in Hilo has been completed.

On November 27, the contractor wrapped up operations and will remove its barge from the harbor on Dec. 7. Situated on-site since the start of the project in July to facilitate dredging operations. Its removal marks the project’s end.

DLNR stated in the release that the final project cost came out to $4.8 million, up from the original estimated cost of $3.1 million. The Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation, which manages Wailoa Small Boat Harbor, covered the cost overrun through its Boating Special Fund fed by statewide harbor and boating facility use fees.

“We appreciate the public's patience, understanding, and advocacy as DOBOR navigated the permitting and funding hurdles to get this project completed before the end of the year,” said DOBOR Administrator Meghan Statts in the release. ”We also appreciate the legislature for recognizing the importance of this project and providing funding.”