1995

Transition and Tenacity

View The 1995 Annual Report >>

1995 was a pivotal year for NELHA, marked by budget cuts and restructuring, but also by bold steps toward long-term growth. The Authority welcomed new tenants, strengthened its reputation as the world’s premier ocean science park, and pressed forward with ambitious infrastructure projects. Microtunneling began to set the stage for HOST Park’s future deep seawater pipelines, while submersible dives and engineering design brought expansion closer to reality. Tenants collectively surpassed $5 million in sales and contributed more than $75 million in cumulative economic impact to Hawaiʻi’s economy. Executive Director Robert Kihune, recognized as DBEDT’s Manager of the Year, guided the organization with a hands-on style that steadied the lab through downsizing and set a course toward self-reliance.

Highlights:

  • Four new tenants joined; other tenants expanded, grossing over $5M in sales and employing more than 100 people.
  • International delegations from Okinawa and the Philippines sought NELHA’s expertise to replicate cold seawater technologies.
  • Strategic Planning Committee (SPC) confirmed NELHA’s mission was succeeding, noting tenants’ $25M in capital investments and $13M in annual sales, for a $75M total economic impact.
  • SPC recommended state capital improvement funding to help NELHA reach self-reliance.
  • CEROS transitioned under NELHA’s oversight, with land set aside for expansion into 548 undeveloped acres.
  • First phase of 55-inch seawater pipeline system advanced despite engineering delays; tunneling extended beneath the shoreline, with full system planned to reach 3,000 ft.
  • NOVA Group began constructing two 66-inch tunnels via pioneering microtunneling, a milestone in environmentally sensitive infrastructure.
  • Submersible dives scheduled with PISCES V to survey routes and inspect nine deep pipelines.
  • Improvements made to seawater and freshwater systems, new discharge wells, and rehabilitation of ponds supported incoming tenants.
  • Operations staff upgraded pumping systems, reducing electricity costs and improving efficiency.
  • Grounds, labs, and visitor facilities received aesthetic and practical improvements, including new seawater demonstration fountains.
  • Comprehensive Environmental Monitoring Program (CEMP) completed its full year; services extended to tenants and external agencies.
  • Administration produced a Program Effectiveness Evaluation Report and executed eight new leases and agreements.
  • “Colloid Cookoff” brought 21 scientists from 11 institutions to conduct groundbreaking research on ocean colloids.
  • Robert Kihune named DBEDT Manager of the Year for his leadership during NELHA’s downsizing and strategic planning.
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