Department of Transportation

LIHUE – Following a May 8 assessment of the slope adjacent to Kuhio Highway (Route 560) at mile marker 1, the Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) advises the public that the Lihue bound lane of the highway will remain closed as crews work to stabilize the upper and lower slopes.

The plan for the slope stabilization includes scaling, soil nail installation, and Tecco mesh and shotcrete reinforcement. The Lihue bound lane of Kuhio Highway will remain closed for the duration of the slope stabilization, which is expected to take between four to five months to complete.

Traffic will be allowed in both directions with alternating traffic control except for when rock scaling is scheduled on the upper slope. During rock scaling, crews will temporarily stop traffic for 30-45 minutes as they knock loose material down and clean the road. Then motorists will be directed through the closure one direction at a time.

Rock scaling operations will not take place during the lower slope work. Please be advised that the highway in this location will be limited to one lane 24-hours a day until the stabilization is completed for the safety of passing motorists.

We are aware of scheduled events in the area including the HCRA State Championship Race in August and will coordinate access and traffic control with the county and other stakeholders.

The public is asked to avoid the area if possible and to treat the traffic control personnel with courtesy.

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