The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT) is preparing to designate a traffic emergency zone along Kamehameha Highway near Kualoa Regional Park. This action comes after shoreline erosion was observed to be affecting the roadway, creating the potential for road instability. On Monday, HDOT’s inspection team documented significant coastal damage and initiated repair work the following day. The planned work includes constructing a revetment using boulders and cobble, as well as backfilling with Controlled Low Strength Material. The repairs are scheduled to take place Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., over a 15-day period.
To implement the traffic emergency zone and begin necessary repairs, HDOT plans to temporarily close the makai lane while keeping the mauka lane open with alternating traffic control. According to the State of Hawaii, and in accordance with statute, the department will hold a hearing within 24 hours of the zone’s designation. This hearing, required to obtain the necessary approvals for emergency repair work, will be conducted virtually via Microsoft Teams today at 10:30 a.m., shortly before the start of repair activities.
Community members and other interested parties can participate in the hearing using the link provided by HDOT or by calling in. The traffic emergency zone is being established to address the risks to the roadway and infrastructure caused by coastal erosion.
Once the emergency zone is declared, HDOT will be able to expedite the repair process to address the erosion and prevent further roadway damage. Travelers are advised to plan for potential delays and follow any traffic control measures while repair work is underway, as conditions may change quickly.
