A Hawaii island project to improve Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor in West Hawaii is moving forward after years of delays caused by environmental concerns.

Delays occurred over the potential impact to coral and species listed under the Endangered Species Act, including one of 14 coral species found at the project site, West Hawaii Today reported.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resource’s Division of Boating and Outdoor Recreation has been granted permission to begin the first phase of the more than $4.7 million project after years of study and plans to mitigate damage. The Department of Army issued the permit March 21.