Question: What’s the status on plans for construction of the Nanakuli Public Library? Talk of the library first surfaced in the 1970s.

Answer: State officials say they hope to start construction of the Nanakuli Public Library next month after some delays pushed back the project’s timeline.

Construction was initially slated for early 2014 and was expected to span about a year. Now construction is estimated for completion in September 2016 due to delays in the permitting process and other issues, according to the state librarian’s office and the state Department of Accounting and General Services.

The 18,000-square-foot library will be adjacent to Nanaikapono Elementary off Farrington Highway on a 3-acre site. Residents have pushed for many years for the library, pointing out that it would be a community resource, especially for students at nearby Nanakuli High and Intermediate School.

The library will feature meeting rooms, business centers and an outdoor program room, among other things.

The construction contract was awarded in January and officials are awaiting a building permit from the city’s Department of Planning and Permitting.

In 2013, state lawmakers appropriated $15.5 million in funding for construction of the building, which will be equipped with PV panels. Later that year, City Council members approved a special management area permit, which is required for developing on coastal lands.

Construction costs came in under budget at about $14.8 million.

“This isn’t just going to be a regular library,” said City Councilwoman Kymberly Pine, who represents the area. “It’s going to be a gathering place for people of all ages.”

The idea of a public library in Nanakuli had been discussed since the 1970s and planning efforts began in 1994. The closest libraries are about 6 miles away in Waianae and Kapolei.

Cynthia Rezentes, chairwoman of the Nanakuli/Maili Neighborhood Board, said residents desired a library that, among other things, would have computers and accommodations for community meetings.

“We think it’s going to be a great asset for the community to have that in that location.” Rezentes said. “It’ll also provide easy access for the students with computer systems.”

State Rep. Andria Tupola (R, Kalaeloa-Ko Olina-Maili) also touted the library as a place for students to do homework. “Having the library right there would be a really good resource for all of the schools,” Tupola said.

But Tupola raised concerns from residents about how access to the library would impact traffic on congested Farrington Highway.

Rezentes added that residents were able to get involved in the planning process. Community outreach efforts began in 2012.

“There are a lot of accommodations made for the way the community envisioned the building,” Rezentes said. “I think the community is looking forward to getting a library instead of driving to Waianae and Kapolei.”

This update was written by Jayna Omaye. Suggest a topic for “Whatever Happened to…” by writing Honolulu Star-Advertiser, 500 Ala Moana Blvd., Suite 7-210, Honolulu, 96813; or email cityeditors@staradvertiser.com.