Visitors to Pearl Harbor are getting new a viewpoint to look out over Pearl Harbor and its memorials when the Ford Island Control Tower opens today as part of the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.
The tower, which had been closed for decades has been under restoration since 2012 at a cost of over $7 million. The work included restoring historic windows and walls, replacing 53 tons of steel in the tower itself to stabilize the structure, and updating ceiling, flooring, electrical conduits, lighting, restrooms, and office space. Air conditioning was also added.
The work also included refurbishing the historic elevator to the top, keeping all the visible details of the original while providing a safe modern lift which will allow visitors to reach the 15-stories-up observation deck and exhibits. Funds for the project came from the State of Hawaii and public fundraising