County Public Works Starts Three New Road Projects

Blessing ceremonies were held for the Kihei Roundabout that is designed to ease traffic in South Maui. Photo by Wendy Osher.

By Sonia Isotov

Today, the County Department of Public Works announced three roadway projects are scheduled to begin in the next two months and include the Kihei Roundabout at Piikea and Liloa, the restriping of Maalaea Road, and the resurfacing of Piilani Highway west of Kaupo.

The construction of the Kihei Roundabout at Piikea and Liloa began August 1, 2011 and is expected be completed by August 29, 2012.

The construction timeline was previously estimated at 270 days, but this new completion date brings construction time to 394 days. Assistant County Communications Director Ryan Piros said that the completion date was set by the contractor due to penalties which kick in if deadlines are not met. He also said that the 270 day estimate only included work days.

The project includes roadway rehabilitation, which includes reconstructing asphalt concrete pavement; installing drainage facilities; constructing sidewalks, curb ramps, and driveways; concrete curbs and gutters; installing new roadway signs and  pavement markings; relocating existing signs; underground electrical and light poles; traffic signals; landscaping and irrigation; masonry retaining walls; chain link fences; and all other incidental work necessary to complete the project.

The Maalaea Road Restriping project involves the removal of existing striping and pavement markers and replacing thermoplastic striping and pavement markers. This project is expected to begin September 19 and be completed by September 30. There will be a lane closure on Maalaea Road.

Improvements to the Piilani Highway west of Kaupo will begin August 15 includes asphalt leveling, asphalt paving, planing, pavement markings; signing; and dressing of shoulders. The resurfacing is expected to be completed by October 11. The public is advised to proceed with caution due to lane closures and should expect up to 20 minute delays.

The public is advised to proceed with caution due to road closures.