Phase 1 of the repairs to Ikuo Hisaoka Gymnasium at Kamehameha Park in Kapa'au has been contracted to Constructors Hawaii, Inc., Big Island County officials said yesterday.

Repairs are expected to begin in mid-March.

The gym will remain closed during this phase of the repairs, which are expected to take 60 days and are scheduled to be completed in mid-May.

Phase 1 will consist of removing debris from the October 2006 earthquake, clearing out the remaining ceiling tiles and light fixtures, and ensuring that the bleacher system is functioning properly. The major structural cracks and truss connections between the walls and columns in the gym as well as the kitchen and meeting rooms will be repaired. Phase 1 will restore the building to a safe condition so that further architectural and electrical work can occur during Phase 2.

Phase 1 is estimated to cost $351,000. Since the damage occurred as the result of the 2006 earthquake, FEMA will pay 75 percent of the repairs; the County of Hawai'i's share is 25 percent.