Drivers who regularly use the Kahului Park & Ride may need to adjust their plans on Monday. The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation announced plans to resurface the lot, obstructing access from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., August 26. All vehicles must be moved before paving work begins along Kūʻihēlani Highway, according to the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation press release.
The resurfacing project is expected to be a one-day job, completed within the Monday timeframe. However, there is contingency in place to quickly continue work on Tuesday, if required. During this period, the park and ride will maintain functionality of at least two out of the four electric vehicle chargers, ensuring that electric vehicle users won't be entirely displaced.
These aren't just any chargers, as these boast a hefty 150-kilowatt capacity and the versatility to support both Combined Charging System and CHArge de MOve ports. The lot represents a notable stride in Hawaiʻi's commitment to promoting sustainable transportation, being home to the state’s first National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure charging station. A similar installation aimed to further undergird this network is already slated on Oʻahu, as reported by the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation.
The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program has broader ambitions to drastically increase the use of electric vehicles, aiming to lower greenhouse gas emissions in the process. The program also seeks to position the U.S. as a leader in the electrification of global transportation, and is laying the tracks by constructing a sweeping network of electric vehicle chargers across the nation.
Traffic updates and additional directions will be made available by Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation as the project unfolds. Commuters who rely on the Kahului Park & Ride are being advised by Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation to make use of alternative parking or transportation methods on August 26, and to stay attentive to any potential requirement for extended work into Tuesday.
