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The Hawaii Department of Transportation announced the allowable vehicle-plus-load limit on Kolekole Bridge north of Hilo on Hawaii Belt Road (Route 19) is now 12 tons.
The revised weight restriction is possible due to emergency welding of two of the four steel trusses of the bridge completed Monday. The welds have been tested and signs reflecting the 12-ton weight restriction have been posted on both sides of the bridge.
Staff will continue to be stationed at the bridge to ensure load compliance as work continues on the longer-term repairs. Timeline for the longer-term repairs is 3-4 months pending availability of materials. The department will update the public on the repairs when the timeframe is confirmed.