Navy initiates return of federal property to state of Hawaii

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Gov. Josh Green announced Thursday that the U.S. Navy is starting the process of returning some federal property currently under its ownership to the state of Hawaii.

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The Department of the Navy is returning nearly 44 acres of land, including about 32 acres at Kalaeloa on Oahu and 12 acres of the Marine Corps Molokai Training Support Facility at Hoolehua.

“This is a meaningful step for Hawaii and reflects what we have heard from communities across the state: When federal lands are no longer needed, they should be returned,” Green said.

In a letter to the state, the Navy committed to completing all necessary environmental, statutory, and property disposal required by federal law.

The Navy says they intend to maintain communication with the state during the process.

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“This commitment represents real progress, but it is not the finish line,” Green said. “We will work carefully to complete these transfers and, with stakeholders’ input, we will determine how the lands can best serve our communities while continuing to support Hawaii’s important role in our national security.”

Ownership will not be transferred to the state until the Navy has completed the necessary due diligence and secures the proper approvals.

No final transfer dates have been set, however, Green says the Navy is developing a timeline with state officials.

“I encourage every military branch to review its holdings in Hawaii and identify other properties that are no longer essential to its mission that can be returned,” Green said.

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