HONOLULU – Gov. Linda Lingle has released $300,000 for phase three of improvements at Kalihi Valley Homes, a federal public housing community managed by the Hawai'i Public Housing Authority. These funds will supplement $7 million from the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development and be used to modernize 27 units in three buildings.

Improvements will include upgrades to interior fixtures, electrical wiring, plumbing and all exterior sewer, water and overhead electrical lines.

"Whenever we can improve or increase our public housing inventory, it's good news for residents and the larger community," Lingle said. "I am especially glad for the many residents at Kalihi Valley Homes who have been waiting patiently for needed renovations to their units."

Construction is scheduled to begin in July and be completed a year later.

In November 2007, Lingle released $20 million in design and construction funds to repair, maintain and renovate public housing facilities across the state, including Kalihi Valley Homes, which marked the first time state funds had been released for improvements to public housing built by the federal government.

The Kalihi Valley Homes community was built in 1953. Phased improvements to buildings in the complex began in 1999 to address deteriorating conditions. To date, 153 of the approximately 400 units have been renovated.