Almost two years of repairs on Waikoloa Road in South Kohala are projected to wrap up by this spring for the 12-mile stretch of roadway, county officials said.
All major construction was completed, including striping efforts. The Hawaii County Department of Public Works is in the process of inspecting the work and analyzing contractor samples to ensure the repairs meet state-approved standards.
The project is in the “pre-final” inspection phase, with officials hoping for everything to be completed as soon as possible.
“It has been a while since we have had serious work on Waikoloa Road. I am grateful to see this major roadway improved and resurfaced, considering the amount of wear over time on this thoroughfare,” County Council member James Hustace told West Hawaii Today.
The community has expressed their opinions on social media about delays and ongoing traffic due to the project being extended since last summer.
“I am hopeful the final inspections go well. With the end in sight, we can now turn our attention to other roadway and safety needs for Waikoloa Village,” Hustace added, whose district includes Waikoloa Road.
The project remained on budget at about $25.6 million, with around nine contractors involved and no injuries reported during construction, according to Public Works. County officials said the project included the removal and installation of the existing roadway, installing pavement markers and other necessary measures.
According to SSFM International, the growing number of traffic accidents on Waikoloa Road prompted the Hilo-based consulting firm to complete a capacity analysis and safety improvements study.
Waikoloa Road is located between Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway and Hawaii Belt Road, a major connector for the two highways in the South Kohala area.
No further information was immediately available.
Email Erik Gabaldon at egabaldon@westhawaiitoday.com.