Highways

HONOLULU — The state Department of Transportation (DOT) Highways Division has completed repairs to the Ihiihilauakea Stream Bridge, located on Kalanianaole Highway between the Koko Head Shooting Range Complex and the Halona Blowhole Lookout. 

Work began on October 7, 2013, and included the repair of cracks and spalls on the concrete bridge structure at an approximate cost of $2.4 million.  Originally built in 1931, the concrete structure had slowly deteriorated after decades of exposure to the ocean and salt air environment.

Concrete spalling and damaged sections were removed and repaired with high strength polymer-based concrete and mortar compounds (see photos below).  Reinforcing steel bars with corrosion damage were also removed and replaced with new steel bars.  A Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) carbon fiber wrap system was also installed around the new concrete to further strengthen the repairs.  The FRP system consists of the application of an epoxy base coat to the new concrete surfaces, installation of a polymer-saturated carbon fiber wrap, and a coating of polymer sealant and painting primer.  As a final step, the repaired areas were painted to restore the visual appearance of the bridge and provide an additional layer of protection against the elements.

On Thursday, March 13, there will be a full closure of Kalanianaole Highway between the Koko Head Shooting Range Complex and the Halona Blowhole Lookout from 8:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. for one day only to remove scaffolding and other construction equipment.   Motorists are advised to use Kealahou Street and Lunalilo Home Road as detour routes.

The DOT thanks the public for their patience during the repair work.