For Immediate Release: January 30, 2009
HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle has released $1.2 million in construction funds to widen the Wailua Cane Haul Bridge to two northbound lanes to improve traffic conditions in the Wailua-Kapa‘a corridor on Kaua‘i. This project is in addition to the $1.87 billion public infrastructure construction plan unveiled by Governor Lingle in December 2008 to stimulate the economy and create jobs.
“This project offers another example of how major infrastructure projects can boost our economy during these challenging times while also providing needed upgrades that improve safety and our residents’ quality of life,” said Governor Lingle. “Once completed, this project will reduce commute times for Kaua‘i residents and enhance the visitor experience.”
This project involves widening Wailua Cane Haul Bridge to two lanes in the northbound direction along Kūhiō Highway. The existing concrete bridge, which currently carries one lane of traffic in the northbound direction, will be replaced with a widened pre-fabricated metal deck. The new bridge will allow for two lanes of vehicular traffic and a separate bicycle and pedestrian path.
In coordination with this project, both lanes of the existing Wailua Bridge will be changed to go in the southbound direction to alleviate traffic through Kapa‘a Town. Together, these changes and improvements will provide an interim solution until the Kūhiō Highway bypass road between Wailua and Kapa‘a can be completed.
The total project cost for the bridge widening is estimated to be $25,017,707, which includes nearly $20 million in federal funds. The design phase for this project is completed. Construction is scheduled to begin in March 2009 and be completed in September 2010.
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For more information, contact:
Brennon Morioka
Director, Dept. of Transportation
Phone: (808) 587-2150
Lenny Klompus
Senior Advisor – Communications
Phone: (808) 586-7708
Russell Pang
Chief of Media Relations
Phone: (808) 586-0043
