Attention all Oahu motorists, major closures are expected to hit westbound H-1 Freeway traffic this weekend. In a notice issued by the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation, a complete shutdown of the westbound H-1 Freeway on-ramp from Nimitz Highway is scheduled to start from 8 p.m. on Friday, August 23, until 1 a.m. the following morning. This closure is part of the ongoing H-1 Freeway Airport Viaduct Improvements Project, aiming to repair and maintain the integrity of the freeway infrastructure.
The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation has clarified that the full closure is necessary for detailed surveying of the concrete deck, addressing defects in the concrete and bridge joints, and permitting the required curing time for repairs. Additionally, temporary striping will be installed as part of preparations for upcoming surface treatment and concrete overlay work. During closure hours, drivers are advised that they will be rerouted to alternative entries to the westbound freeway via the Pearl Harbor Interchange and the Keʻehi Interchange by Kamehameha Highway, as outlined in the official Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation announcement.
Commuters should brace for additional traffic disruptions. Coinciding with the on-ramp closure, Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation has announced that there will also be two to three left lane closures on the westbound H-1 Freeway stretching from the Keʻehi Interchange to the Pearl Harbor Interchange. These closures will begin at the same time as the ramp closure and continue uninterrupted through 1 a.m., Monday, August 26. Motorists are reminded to proceed with caution and heed all traffic control signs.
For the duration of this infrastructure upgrade, special duty police officers will be stationed to enhance safety and guide diverted traffic. The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation has confirmed that first responders and emergency vehicles have been duly notified about the scheduled disruptions to ensure preparedness. All roadwork activities are contingent upon favorable weather conditions, a fact that motorists should keep in mind when planning their journeys through the impacted areas.
