A one-way traffic pattern for a portion of Kalanianaole Avenue will go into effect March 23 as part of ongoing road work.
The traffic pattern will be in effect 24 hours a day for four to six months, weather and construction conditions permitting, according to the county Department of Public Works.
Motorists traveling from Keaukaha to Hilo can use Kalanianaole Avenue between Silva Street and Kamehameha Avenue.
Meanwhile, a detour will direct eastbound motorists traveling from Hilo to Keaukaha from the intersection of Kamehameha Avenue and Kanoelehua Avenue, east on Kamehameha Avenue then north to Silva Street to reconnect to Kalanianaole Avenue.
Signs and message boards will be posted to advise drivers of the one-way pattern. Motorists should obey all traffic control devices, including special duty officers when on scene, and should drive with caution in the work zone and expect delays.
A joint effort of the state Department of Transportation and county, the roadwork, which began in March 2018, is being done to improve the roadway as well as improve safety for motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians.
Work will widen Kalanianaole Avenue from Kanoelehua Avenue to Kuhio Street to allow for a concrete sidewalk on the makai side, a paved shoulder on the mauka side, bicycle lanes in each direction, one through lane in each direction, a shared turn lane and installation of a 12-inch diameter waterline.
The one-way traffic pattern is being implemented to allow for the waterline installation, relocation of utility lines and to pave both travel lanes.
DPW said the 24-hour traffic pattern will reduce the work by 12 to 18 months, but because there are numerous residential properties in the area, road work at night is not possible.
In addition, Kuhio Kalanianaole Park will remain closed through March 21 to accommodate ongoing construction work.
Those with questions or concerns about the improvement project can call Sterling Chow at the DPW Engineering Division at 961-8925.