Hawai‘i Police Department
Hilo Community Policing Section
Lieutenant William Derr
Phone: (808) 961-2350
Media Release
Hawai‘i Police Department’s (HPD) Hilo Community Policing Section and the Hawai‘i Island Police Activity League (HI-PAL) thank all the participants and vendors who made the inaugural Trek the Trail event in Hilo on Saturday, September 16, 2023, such a great success. HPD co-sponsored the free community event in collaboration with the County of Hawai‘i and Trek the Trails.
Designed to introduce the community to the newly established pedestrian and bike trail along Hilo Bayfront and promote healthy living, the event featured a walk along the paved pathway.
Hawai‘i Police Department bike patrol officers were present to assist participants as they navigated the new trail. Officers helped pedestrians and bicyclists cross the street and provided children with essential bike safety tips.
Other activities included a bicycle course at the Afook Chinen Auditorium parking lot, where over 130 enthusiastic children tested their skills. Upon completion, each child received a mock bicycle license. These licenses serve as a symbol of their accomplishment and offer discounts at participating local stores.
Dozens of food and craft vendors also participated in the festivities at the auditorium parking lot.
In addition to promoting bike safety and community well-being, the event included a giveaway of three bicycles, helmets, and other bike accessories, underscoring the importance of cycling in the community.
The success of the first-ever Trek the Trail has already spurred discussions about making it a recurring event in Hilo.
The Hawai‘i Island Police Activity League is a nonprofit organization committed to fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and the community. Through various initiatives, including recreational and educational programs, HI-PAL aims to improve community safety and well-being.