Lava Tree State Monument on the Big Island near Paahoa is scheduled to get more improvements — $2 million worth — with some design work slated to begin later this year.

Facilities at the 17-acre park have suffered from age, the effects of weather, vandalism, falling Albizia trees and root intrusion, state park officials said. Gov. Linda Lingle just released funds for the project, which will repave the parking entrance and parking lot, reconstruct portions of the 0.7-mile loop trail to meet accessibility guidelines, replace interpretive displays, reroof the picnic pavilion, fence portions of the park's volcanic chasm that remain exposed to park users, remove plant hazards, and upgrade the comfort station, including plumbing improvements.

Lingle said the condition of the state parks remains a priority of her administration. "These improvements will enhance the overall park experience for residents and visitors who want to explore the Lava Tree State Monument and appreciate our islands' natural beauty."

This allotment includes $200,000 for design and $1.8 million for construction. Design is scheduled to begin in July 2008 and be completed in July 2009. Construction is scheduled to begin in March 2010 and be completed in March 2011.

A separate project constructing accessibility improvements at Lava Tree State Monument is now under way and scheduled to be completed in August.