Highways

HILO – The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) is notifying the public of lead contamination mitigation work being performed below and in the vicinity of the Hakalau Bridge in Hawaii County. Initial tests discovered lead in the soil around the base of the bridge structure that exceeded allowable levels. Additional soil testing will determine the extent and depth of the lead contamination in the soil.

HDOT is working with the Hawaii Department of Health, Hazard Evaluation and Emergency Response Office (HEER Office) on the mitigation efforts.

The additional soil testing work will be performed next week. Test results are anticipated to be returned within two to three months after the sampling is collected. As a precaution, orange construction fencing and warning signs have been placed around the base of the bridge restricting public access to the area. The fencing will remain in place until further notice.

Additional soil testing will also be conducted below the Kolekole Bridge nearby, which is an area with public access. Preliminary screening at that site showed low lead levels, however further testing will be conducted as a precaution.

The current work is limited to the ground below and around the bridge structures. Lead paint abatement work on the bridge structures was previously completed.

For additional information and to view a fact sheet regarding the work please click here.

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