State park restrooms notorious for poor sanitation are about to undergo some serious scrubbing, inside and out.

All 81 of the so-called "comfort stations" in dozens of state parks on the five major islands will now be power washed twice a month, Peter Young, chairman of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, said yesterday.

Crews used power washers to remove decades of dirt and grime from the floors, walls, fixtures and sidewalks around one of six Sand Island State Park restrooms yesterday, part of the new statewide effort clean up the public facilities.

"The number one complaint of state park users is that restrooms are not clean, or are damaged," Young said. "We are cleaning and sanitizing our park comfort stations and performing some renovations throughout our park systems."

Young said the work is in addition to the regular cleanings.

The cost to power wash 81 park restrooms twice a month is about $486,000 a year, according to the state.

Crews from O'ahu Power Washing Services used hot water power washers to demonstrate how much dirt had accumulated in the 30 years since the Sand Island park structure was built. Some of the Sand Island restrooms also will have major repair work done and some will be fitted with sturdy new stainless-steel fixtures.

Kailua resident Gail Anonsen works on Sand Island and walks the park daily as part of her exercise routine. Anonsen said she only ventures inside the restrooms "in an emergency," in the 90-acre park.

"There are mosquitoes in there, and most of the time there is no paper," she said.

Statewide, 24 park restrooms in 12 parks either have been renovated or will be renovated over the next two years.

"DLNR has a plan to spend in excess of $20 million on capital improvement projects between fiscal year 2005 through 2007," he said. "We are undertaking these projects to ensure public health and safety, and to comply with federal and state health and environmental mandates."

The DLNR manages 69 parks, sites and monuments on nearly 26,000 acres.

With limited staffing and so much area to cover, the state is dependent on volunteer groups to help keep the parks clean, he said. At Sand Island, church groups help maintain the grounds and are rebuilding the baseball fields. The Lions Club has repaired many of the benches.

"Cooperation from the public and volunteer organizations is critical for the maintenance of our park facilities," he said. "It's our commitment to make the park experience for everyone more enjoyable."

Reach James Gonser at jgonser@honoluluadvertiser.com.