Highways

HONOLULU – The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) Highways Division advises the public that the Kalihi Street Improvements project will begin on Sunday night, Sept. 9, 2018. This project will repair and make upgrades to Kalihi Street while improving vehicular and pedestrian safety.

Two lanes will be closed on Kalihi Street in the southbound direction between School Street and the H-1 Freeway underpass on Sunday night, Sept. 9, 2018 through Friday morning, Sept. 14, 2018 from 7 p.m. to 4:30 a.m., nightly.

The upcoming project includes resurfacing, reconstruction of weakened pavement areas, sidewalk improvements, replacing drain inlet grates, adjusting manholes, and installation of loop detectors, pavement striping, and signage.

“With its last resurfacing in 1995, Kalihi Street is due for improvements as a result of the corridor’s heavy vehicular activity,” said Ed Sniffen, HDOT Highways Deputy Director. “Not only will this project benefit motorists, but it will also focus on pedestrian safety because of the high volume of students accessing Kalihi Kai Elementary School, Kalakaua Middle School, and Farrington High School.”

To improve safety for the 3,700 students and other pedestrians in the area, HDOT is considering alternatives which could include raised crosswalks at unsignalized crosswalks and new traffic signals. The bus stop near Ashford Street will be relocated behind the sidewalk to provide a wider walking area.

Proposed safety improvements will be posted on HDOT’s website, sent to area legislators and neighborhood boards, and presented at the Kalihi Neighborhood Board. HDOT will monitor the effects of the improvements and adjust as necessary to maximize safety and efficiency.

The $3.2 million project is funded with 80 percent federal and 20 percent state funds. The additional safety improvements could raise the project cost. It is anticipated to be complete by the end of 2018, weather permitting.

Motorists are advised to expect delays during construction hours. Weekly lane closure information will be available on the HDOT website at hidot.hawaii.gov/highways/roadwork/

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