Additional $4 Million Appropriated for MKAEC Project

University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo
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Posted: Aug 5, 2002

The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo's Mauna Kea Astronomy Education Center (MKAEC) recently received confirmation on the appropriation of $4 million in federal funds toward Phase Two of construction, announced MKAEC Project Director George Jacob. The appropriation is part of the $21.95 million approved by the Senate Committee for economic development, environmental, and housing initiatives in Hawaiʻi. The $4 million is in addition to the $8 million that was appropriated for the project on October 19, 2000.

"Keeping his commitment to education and economic development, Senator Daniel Inouye made the timely appropriation a reality," Jacob said. "We are extremely appreciative of his efforts and ongoing support of the Mauna Kea Astronomy Education Center project."

The $4 million will be used toward Phase Two of the project, which includes the planning, design, and construction phases.

The $28 million world-class MKAEC will be located on 9.1 acres in UH Hilo's University Science and Technology Park. The 42,000-square-foot Center will serve as the premier interpretive center for the world's largest and finest collection of astronomical observatories located atop Mauna Kea, as well as blend elements of astronomy and Hawaiian culture, weaving science and culture in a compelling story of the spirit of human exploration. The project continues to progress at a rapid pace, and if plans continue as scheduled, ground breaking is expected to take place at the end of 2002.