Highways

07/27/12

HONOLULU — The state Department of Transportation (DOT) advises Oahu motorists that traffic over the Kaukonahua (Karsten Thot) Bridge, north of Wahiawa, will be temporarily limited to passenger vehicles pending repairs on the steel bridge structure.  Buses and heavy commercial vehicles will be temporarily rerouted to Wilikina Drive and Kamananui Road as an alternate route (see map below).

Rust and weather-related deterioration were found in a recent inspection of the steel truss bridge, originally constructed in 1932.  The temporary weight restrictions will be in place as a precaution until repairs can be made in the next several weeks.  Emergency vehicles will still be allowed to use the bridge during this time.

Bus and commercial vehicle operators are advised to use the alternate route on Wilikina Drive and Kamananui Road and to plan for extra travel time.

Originally constructed in 1932, the Kaukonahua (Karsten Thot) Bridge is one of only three metal truss bridges in the islands and the only one of its type on Oahu.