Work will begin Monday to restore Cemetery Road in Pahoa, a large portion of which less than a year ago was covered by lava.
Work will begin Monday to restore Cemetery Road in Pahoa, a large portion of which less than a year ago was covered by lava.
On Oct. 25, lava associated with the June 27 Pu‘u ‘O‘o eruption crossed onto Cemetery Road, which extends from Apaa Street near the Pahoa Transfer Station.
“After assessing ingress and egress for the area, including the Kaohe Homesteads, restoring the functionality of Cemetery Road is in the best interests of public safety,” reads a press release issued Friday by the Hawaii County Department of Public Works.
Workers with the department will begin next week removing the new lava to original grades and then paving the 500-foot stretch of roadway. The project is expected to take approximately 40 working days to complete, weather and construction conditions permitting.
With a total price tag of $150,000, 75 percent of the project’s cost will be funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
“Motorists are advised to use caution as heavy trucks and equipment will be utilizing Cemetery Road and Apaa Street. Cemetery Road will be closed as a though street for the duration of this restoration project,” the release states.
“Hawaii County Department of Public Works thanks the community for their cooperation in keeping the construction area clear and roadways free from potential traffic and safety problems.”
People with questions or concerns can call Barett Otani, county information and education specialist, at 961-8787.
Email Colin Stewart at cstewart@hawaiitribune-herald.com.