Gov. Linda Lingle released $346,000 yesterday for the design of improvements at two intersections on Kuhio Highway in Lihu‘e. “Adjustments to existing roads are often the best way to improve the flow of traffic, particularly in an island state like
Gov. Linda Lingle released $346,000 yesterday for the design of improvements at two intersections on Kuhio Highway in Lihu‘e.
“Adjustments to existing roads are often the best way to improve the flow of traffic, particularly in an island state like Hawai‘i where land is limited,” said Lingle, according to a news release. “This project follows this strategy. Once completed, it will help alleviate traffic congestion for Kaua‘i residents whose daily commutes take them through Lihu‘e.”
Improvements are being designed for two intersections on Kuhio Highway:
• Kuhio Highway/Eha Street
This project will extend the right lane in the northbound direction on Kuhio Highway and convert it into a dedicated right-turn lane at the intersection by Wilcox Memorial Hospital in Lihu‘e. It is hoped this will reduce the congestion caused by cars having to merge into the middle through-lane. The project also includes the design of sidewalks that extend all the way to the intersection and have accessible ramps.
• Kuhio Highway/Kapule Highway
Project funds will cover the design of an additional left-turn lane on Kuhio Highway in the northbound direction, increasing the number of left-turn lanes at the Kapule Highway intersection to two. Combined with the plan to increase green-light time from Kapule Highway onto Kuhio Highway in the northbound direction, planners hope this will help alleviate traffic on both highways north of Lihu‘e Airport during the afternoon peak hours.
The total cost of the project is estimated at $5,459,000.
Design is scheduled to be completed in December 2008. Construction is expected to begin in February 2009 and be completed in July 2009.
