w Editor’s note: Old-timers might remember the introduction from The Shadow radio program: “Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men? The Shadow knows!” Jerome Freitas, a retired state Department of Transportation worker, since 2004 has been meeting
w Editor’s note: Old-timers might remember the introduction from The Shadow radio program: “Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men? The Shadow knows!” Jerome Freitas, a retired state Department of Transportation worker, since 2004 has been meeting with government representatives about problems and reporting the county’s responses.
Pedestrian bridge on Maluhia Road, Koloa
What is preventing the opening of this bridge? Why has the construction work stopped?
Wailana Pedestrian Bridge in Koloa is 95 percent complete and is open to the public. The only thing remaining for project is the new guardrail installation along the edge of the road. Guardrail work should be completed in two months as the contractor is currently awaiting the arrival of necessary materials.
Haleko Road and Rice Street
As conveyed in previous requests, the faded or non-existent road markings on these roads make it very dangerous for motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists. Are there any interim measures such as installing reflectors that could be done while the administration goes through the lengthy planning and design process for these roads?
Yes, the county will repaint the lines along these roads while we await completion of long-term projects. To maintain efficiency, the Roads Division completes restriping work by districts. Currently, the crew is completing restriping work in the South District and will be heading to Lihue next.
Old police station
We noticed that the old Kauai Police Department building next to Wilcox Elementary School was recently surrounded with dust screens. What are the plans for this building?
The old Kauai Police Department building falls under the jurisdiction of the State of Hawaii. According to a representative from the State of Hawaii, Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS), the current short-term plan is for the old police station near Wilcox Elementary School to be demolished. Demolition is currently scheduled for June/July of 2017, subject to change.
The existing parking on that property is designated for state use and will be enforced as such once the demolition is complete. The parking is needed due to the renovation of the former Lihue Courthouse that will now be used as a state office building. In the long-term, DAGS will determine the future use of this site through its master planning process, which will evaluate state office and operational needs on the island.
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Jerome Freitas can be reached at theshadow96751@gmail.com or 635-3528. Visit his website at http://theshadow96746.tripod.com.
