State transportation officials have proposed buying 57.2 acres for expansion of Kalaeloa Barbers Point Harbor facilities and accommodating urban growth in west Oahu.

Acting state Transportation Director Mike Formby said the land close to harbor piers could provide container yard space and other uses 20 years into the future when a second city is fully developed.

Formby said having more container yard space would reduce the freight traffic between Honolulu Harbor and west Oahu.

The Harbors Division recently filed a draft environmental assessment with the state Office of Environmental Quality Control, saying it does not anticipate developing an environmental impact statement.

Formby said a prior environmental study found no endangered species.

The property, owned by Campbell Hawaii Investor LLC, is under license to Grace Pacific Corp. for stockpiling of imported sand and aggregate and operation of a hot mix asphalt plant, according to the state.

Officials said that with Honolulu Harbor already fully utilized, Kalaeloa Barbers Point Harbor serves an important role in alleviating congestion.

Formby said the estimated cost of the land is undetermined and an appraiser has been hired to make a determination of value prior to the state taking condemnation action.