An Effort to Revitalize ‘A‘ala Park is Underway

On a sunny day in April, some 75 volunteers were at ‘A‘ala Park, planting native trees, removing trash, scrubbing away graffiti and brightening up colorful murals. The effort was part of Trust for Public Land’s Parks for People pilot program, which supports the community in designing a shared vision for the future of the seven-acre park on the edge of Chinatown.

Credit: Trust for Public Land

“For the 18,000 people who live and work within walking distance, ‘Aʻala Park is a place to meaningfully connect families and children to nature and the outdoors,” said Lea Hong, Associate VP and Hawai‘i State Director of Trust for Public Land. “We’re incredibly grateful for our volunteers and partners like American Savings Bank who help to ensure the park can serve as a community hub for future generations.”

Despite its rich history, this urban ‘āina has become a place where locals feel unsafe. American Savings Bank is generously supporting Trust for Public Land’s efforts to transform ‘A‘ala Park into a well-used and well-loved public space that will benefit the entire community.

Credit: Trust for Public Land

“‘A‘ala Park has tremendous potential to be a vibrant place for neighbors and families to enjoy,” said Ann Teranishi, President and Chief Executive Officer, American Savings Bank. “We are grateful for Trust for Public Land’s vision and committed to being part of the ongoing efforts to protect and create more open spaces.”

Research demonstrates that access to the outdoors and green space not only improves health but also reduces crime and increases trust among community members, which in turn spurs economic growth.

Credit: Trust for Public Land

Trust for Public Land is a national nonprofit that works to connect everyone to the benefits and joys of the outdoors. In Hawai‘i, Trust for Public Land and its donors have protected 77,000 acres of land across the islands from development.