Ko'olau Loa families and friends will gather along Gunstock Ranch Road at Malaekahana this Saturday, September 11, for the Malaekahana Bike and Pedestrian Path Groundbreaking.

Hosted by Envision Lā'ie, the much-anticipated event begins at 10 a.m. Festivities include pre-event entertainment by the Nani Lā'ie Serenaders and light refreshments.

Students from nearby Lā'ie Elementary, Kahuku Elementary, Kahuku Intermediate & High School and Brigham Young University-Hawaii will gather for a symbolic march to the groundbreaking site.

In lieu of the traditional, shovel groundbreaking, a section of the path will be cleared by residents.

The event is symbolic of this community-wide undertaking.  The Envision Lā'ie project is a collaboration by landowner Hawaii Reserves Inc. (HRI), the Lā'ie Community Association (LCA), the Kahuku Community Association (KCA) and area residents.  HRI is providing the land and materials; LCA, KCA, residents and local businesses are providing labor. 

"Our goal with the Malaekahana bike path is to create a region where cycling and walking are an easy, safe and healthy choice for all ages - especially our school kids," said R. Eric Beaver, president of HRI.

"Our quality of life is getting a great boost with the bike path," said Pane Meatoga, president of LCA. "It's an investment in our community's safety and wellness, and it can help ease transportation concerns."

To read more, go to the Honolulu Star-Advertiser.