Drivers in Maui are in for a slight headache as the Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) has announced upcoming paving work on Puʻunēnē Avenue, as part of its ongoing improvement project. According to an HDOT press release, the northbound right thru-lane between Papa Avenue and Kahului Baptist Church will be off-limits from April 30 to May 2, and again on May 5 and 6, each day from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
During these times, northbound traffic will be funneled into the center turn lane, which will function as a temporary thru-lane to keep the trundle of vehicles moving, however, this modification means the left northbound lane will switch back to a left turn lane right at the Kahului Baptist Church, But rest assured, access to important community locations like schools and churches will remain unimpeded. Flaggers will be present to direct vehicles and assist with the flow at intersections ensuring that even as lanes shift, daily life does not.
The work on Puʻunēnē Avenue is a key piece of an overall plan to improve traffic circulation by converting parts of the road from two lanes to four, matching the existing setup on other segments of the avenue. HDOT's aims are to enhance the flow of traffic, as well as facilitate better vehicle and freight movement in central Maui's key areas. Southbound travel won't be affected, with no closures scheduled, so those driving in that direction can breathe easy.
Construction began in November 2024, and HDOT plans to wrap up by April 2026, the entirety of the project will also see updated traffic signalization leading to improved vehicle experience on one of Maui's main arteries, With the promise of more lane miles and sleek switching of signals, the future of Puʻunēnē Avenue looks decidedly smoother. Meanwhile, highway users are encouraged to abide by signage and heed directions from traffic controllers as the neighborhood navigates through this infrastructure facelift.
