A ground-breaking ceremony was held yesterday for O'ahu's first legal, off-road venue for everything from remote-controlled model cars to monster trucks.

The 32-acre, waterfront park off of Sand Island — now known as "Sandbox Hawaii" — will will mean less wear and tear on the Kahuku Motocross Park, and on hot spots for four-wheelers, said Reid Shimabukuro, who has been instrumental in setting up the Sand Island park.

The effort has been supported by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, which often deals with the destruction from illegal off-road vehicles.

Sandbox Hawaii will evolve in phases, starting with a track for BMX bikers, an area for remote-controlled vehicles and a "peewee track" for kids who ride off-road motorcycles and a track for four-wheelers — trucks fitted with big tires and special suspensions.

The project is a first-of-its-kind partnership between off-roaders of all kinds and the state government and was supported yesterday by Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona.

It was originally scheduled to open in fall 2007 but has been stalled because of several permitting and other delays.

The park will be maintained by volunteers and users will pay fees, which will help cover insurance costs.