Drivers on Komohana Street can expect delays into February as the county Department of Public Works continues work on a road reconstruction project.
On Tuesday, a one-lane, one-way traffic pattern went into effect on Komohana between the intersections of Kukuau and Ponahawai streets.
The new traffic pattern will last until Feb. 19, weather permitting.
Public Works information and education specialist Barett Otani said Wednesday the traffic pattern is intended to expedite the overall project, which began in October and ran into delays because of rainy weather.
Otani said the closure of one lane also will improve safety during the construction period.
“The lane gets tight in that area there,” he said.
The county already received complaints about the closure, particularly from residents of the Huali Place subdivision located off Komohana. For the time being, residents can only turn right when leaving their subdivision.
Otani said contractor Yamada and Sons Inc. notified residents of the changes prior to beginning work.
“As soon as they clear the entrance to the Huali subdivision, they’re going to open it up,” Otani said.
Construction crews began work at the Kukuau intersection and are proceeding north.
The Komohana project involves the reconstruction of 4,000 feet of the road as well as traffic signal upgrades and replacement of utilities.
Otani said despite the delays, the project cost remained the same: $4.9 million.
Though the one-way traffic pattern has an estimated ending, the complete Komohana reconstruction, which will continue to Waianuenue Avenue, does not.
“As far as the (full) project, we’re not sure yet,” Otani said.
Email Ivy Ashe at iashe@hawaiitribune-herald.com.
