Roadwork along Kalanianaole Avenue in Keaukaha is expected to be finished in the second quarter of 2021, not by the end of 2020 as previously anticipated.
“Project work is steadily progressing as crews continue installing a 12-inch diameter waterline, as well as trenching, sidewalk and driveway construction,” said Denise Laitinen, spokeswoman for the county Department of Public Works, in an email.
However, the project’s completion has been delayed because of “construction conditions,” Laitinen said in a follow-up phone conversation. She did not elaborate.
A joint effort of the state Department of Transportation and county, the roadwork is being done to improve the roadway itself, as well as improve safety for motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians.
Kalanianaole Avenue is being widened 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 $18.4 million project began in March 2018.
Laitinen said that because of utility conflicts and concerns, the section of county roadway will be paved with concrete as opposed to asphalt.
A one-way traffic pattern in effect for a portion of Kalanianaole Avenue because of the road work will remain in place for the time being.
Motorists traveling from Keaukaha to Hilo can use Kalanianaole Avenue between Silva Street and Kamehameha Avenue.
Meanwhile, a detour directs 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.
Email Stephanie Salmons at ssalmons@hawaiitribune-herald.com.
