As Hilo prepares to host the International Va‘a Federation 2024 World Sprint Championships from August 13 through August 24, the Hawai‘i Police Department is calling on drivers to exercise extra caution when navigating the streets around Hilo Bayfront. According to an update from Hawai‘i Police Department, the event is expected to draw thousands of athletes and fans, creating significant traffic around the competition site at Bayfront Canoe Landing, across from the King Kamehameha Statue on Kamehameha Avenue.
With attendees arriving from 27 countries to witness teams compete in traditional Hawaiian canoe racing, the local police are advising those not involved with the event to steer clear of the area to avoid contributing to congestion. Parking will be free within the Bayfront zone and in the grassy fields across Kamehameha Avenue, but this generosity is likely to attract a high volume of pedestrians wading through traffic. To aid foot traffic, special duty officers will be on the scene from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily throughout the competition's duration.
"We urge the public to be mindful of pedestrians and drive cautiously in this area," was the unified message disseminated by the Hawai‘i Police Department, underscoring the increased foot traffic and potential for accidents if motorists are not vigilant. Additional parking will be available at the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium lot, but with the venue situated a distance away, attendees will be walking to the bayfront, again mixing with street traffic and necessitating prudent driving.
Community cooperation is vital for the smooth operation of such a large-scale international event. The Hawai‘i Police Department appreciates public’s understanding and cooperation as they work to ensure the safety for all involved in this prestigious paddling encounter. For those planning to attend or just passing through, patience and attentiveness on the roads will go a long way in making the World Sprint Championships a successful and safe celebration of sport and culture.
