Kauai’s Vidinha Stadium begins a major transformation with a $12.2 million upgrade that includes synthetic turf and new amenities for athletes and fans.
Kauai’s Vidinha Stadium entered a new era with the groundbreaking ceremony and blessing of its Phase 1 improvements on Friday, March 7th, 2025. The event marks the beginning of a long-awaited transformation of the iconic sports venue, with enhancements that will benefit local athletes, spectators, and the broader community for years to come.
In a speech during the ceremony, Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami emphasized the spirit of collaboration that made the project possible. “This project represents collaboration and partnerships, as it has genuinely been a team effort. This is what is possible when everyone comes together for our community,” he stated. “Mahalo to all our partners, workers, and everyone involved who made this possible. Our island will truly appreciate this field of dreams for future generations.”
The $12.2 million Phase 1 upgrade will completely transform the stadium’s field and track. This includes demolishing and removing the current playing surface and track elements, and installing a state-of-the-art synthetic turf field. The turf, made from synthetic fibers designed to replicate the appearance and texture of natural grass, will significantly enhance the usability of the field.
Unlike traditional turf, the new field will feature an organic infill made from coconut husk. This environmentally-friendly material will not only help to keep the field cooler under the Hawaiian sun but also provide a temperature regulation system that mimics the natural grass experience. The synthetic turf offers a range of benefits, such as eliminating the need for constant field rest periods, reducing water consumption, and completely eliminating the need for pesticides or fertilizers. With these upgrades, the field will be able to accommodate year-round use, making it a valuable resource for sports leagues, school teams, and community events.
This initial phase is just the beginning of a multi-stage transformation for the stadium. Phase 2 of the Vidinha Stadium improvements is currently in the design phase and promises to bring even more significant upgrades to the venue. These include the repair and upgrade of bleachers, the replacement of the press box, and the introduction of ADA-compliant amenities to meet current accessibility standards. Enhanced field lighting systems will also be installed, making the stadium a prime location for evening events. Further improvements will see the remodeling of locker rooms, offices, restrooms, and concession booths, making the venue more comfortable and accessible for athletes, officials, and spectators alike.
Vidinha Stadium has long been a hub for sports and community events on Kauai, hosting a wide variety of events ranging from local football and track meets to concerts, graduations, fairs and 4th of July celebrations.
The renovation is being managed by Co-Ha Builders Inc., operating as Applied Surfacing Technology, and designed in collaboration with Fukunaga & Associates Inc. The project broke ground on March 10, 2025, and is expected to be completed by December 2025, with the stadium remaining closed for the duration of the construction.
The improvements to Vidinha Stadium are part of Kauai County’s ongoing efforts to invest in its infrastructure and provide the island’s residents with high-quality, sustainable facilities. As the project moves forward, the community can look forward to a revitalized Vidinha Stadium that honors its history while paving the way for a bright future for local sports and recreation.
Credit: County of Kauai
