Ask the Mayor: Middle Striping on Honoapiʻilani

Mayor Michael Victorino answers some of the most-asked questions.

Q: Iʻve lived in Napili since 2004. Iʻve noticed all these years that the upper Honoapiʻilani needs defined middle striping on the road from Honokowai to Napilihau Street. During the winter months of increased traffic and rain, itʻs very difficult to maintain road presence. I know the sides of the road are defined, but after almost being hit for the umpteenth time I thought I would call this to your attention in hopes of a remedy.

A: Mahalo for your question and staff from our Department of Public Works assisted my office
to look into this issue.

I’m not sure if you’re referring to Lower Honoapiʻilani Road, which is under the County’s jurisdiction, or Honoapiʻilani Highway, which falls under the State Department of Transportation. The only questionable area on the lower County road is the short area between Omaikai Place to Hoohui Road. This area of roadway is in our County Engineering future paving projects, while the other areas are in acceptable condition.

To give the public a little insight on the life expectancy of thermoplastic road striping, it generally lasts up to five years. For Maui, though, the striping can last five to eight years and in some cases much longer depending upon traffic volume, weather and condition of the road.

I believe you may be referring to the State highway from Honokowai to Napilihau. The middle
striping does transition from the normal solid, double-yellow lines into the newly installed rumble strips with yellow ceramic buttons. My staff forwarded your concerns to the State DOT office, which responded that it will take a look at the striping and pavement markings and address issues appropriately.

To reach the DOT Maui District Office, you can call (808) 873-3538. To report a highway
problem, please call (808) 873-3535. For a list of our County Engineering Division’s Current and Future projects, please visit https://www.mauicounty.gov/1844/Current-Future-Projects.

Want to Ask the Mayor?

Submit your Maui County related questions to Mayor Michael Victorino by email at [email protected], by phone at 270-7855 or by mail at 200 S. High St., ninth floor, Wailuku 96793. Questions submitted will be considered for inclusion in the “Ask the Mayor” column; to request a personal response to a concern, email [email protected].

Maui Now file photo.