Residents and commuters through Māʻili may need to adjust their timelines and travel routes as the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT) announces a further extension to the completion of the Maʻipalaoa Bridge project. According to HDOT, the project, which was initially slated to be substantially completed by the end of August, is now anticipated to continue through the end of October 2024.
The delay stems from HDOT's decision to reevaluate the pedestrian path configuration on the bridge's mauka side, aiming to better ensure pedestrian safety. This shift is set to potentially extend the project deadline, representing a commitment to public safety over the pressing of a swift completion date. Construction crews successfully installed concrete and metal railings on August 20, with the removal of partially submerged concrete piles already in progress and expected to conclude within two to three weeks, weather allowing.
Once the current work is completed, other tasks remain to fully wrap up the bridge construction, including installing asphalt pavement, signage, and temporary striping. HDOT has assured that future work schedules will be communicated in advance. Motorists are urged to anticipate delays, to allow extra time for their commutes, and to exercise caution when navigating through any work zones.
To assist drivers in planning their journeys, HDOT has made available weekly road closure updates, which can be accessed through their official website.
