Personnel from U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii and the state Department of Transportation teamed up on Wednesday to clear waste and debris from an expansive homeless encampment in Kipapa Gulch. The site, which is on land managed by USAG-HI, was initially cleared by the Army in September. At that time, individuals living at the site were offered outreach services and transitional shelter by the nonprofit organization Achieve Zero.

What You Need To Know

  • The site, which is on land managed by USAG-HI, was initially cleared by the Army in September

  • Individuals living at the site were offered outreach services and transitional shelter by the nonprofit organization Achieve Zero

  • A significant amount of waste and debris—including generators, mechanical parts, discarded syringes and needles, and electrical wiring—was left behind

  • State Rep. Trish La Chica said the cleanup is a positive example of how the state, military and community organizations can collaborate to address the homelessness problem on Oahu

However, even after people left the site, a significant amount of waste and debris—including generators, mechanical parts, discarded syringes and needles, and electrical wiring—was left behind. The Army said the debris posed a “significant threat to public safety.”

"The coordination of this cleanup event between the U.S. Army Garrison and HDOT is a testament to the strength of our cooperation, demonstrating how the U.S. Army and the State of Hawaii can work together effectively to resolve challenges that impact us all," said USAG-HI Garrison Commander Col. Steven McGunegle. "This partnership highlights our commitment to community safety, environmental stewardship and compassionate outreach. This initiative not only cleans up the land but also connects vulnerable populations with essential support services, fostering a safer and more united community."

This week’s cleanup was the result of a meeting coordinated by state Rep. Trish La China and involving McGunegle and Directorate of Emergency Services Director Col. Charles Green regarding debris removal and collaboration between the Army and the state to address homelessness in the area and around Oahu.

"The unique circumstances surrounding the encampment required follow-up and further collaboration between several federal and state entities," La Chica said. "Mahalo to Col. McGunegle, Col. Green, and (DOT director Ed) Sniffen, along with their respective teams, for prioritizing our community and their efficiency in addressing this complex issue."

La Chica said the cleanup is a positive example of how the state, military and community organizations can collaborate to address the homelessness problem on Oahu.

"The collective efforts to address the encampment, provide essential outreach services, and clear the remaining debris were only made possible through the coordinated efforts between U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii, state agencies, and Achieve Zero," she said. "This process represents the impact that similar partnerships can have in our community and I extend my deepest gratitude to our partners."

Michael Tsai covers local and state politics for Spectrum News Hawaii. He can be reached at michael.tsai@charter.com.