GOVERNOR LINGLE RELEASES $2,647,000 FOR KALANIANA`OLE HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENTS

For Immediate Release:  July 28, 2008

HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle has released $2,647,000 to construct shoulder and barrier improvements on Kalaniana‘ole Highway near Makapu‘u Point.

Currently, the damaged retaining wall on the makai shoulder is causing parts of the road to sink. This project will demolish the upper portion of the existing retaining wall and construct a new, ground-anchored concrete barrier wall on the makai side of the existing wall. It will also install guard-railing and repave weakened roadways. In addition, loose rocks from the mauka slope will be removed and a new impact barrier fence will be constructed along the mauka shoulder to address continuing erosion and rockfall concerns.

“This project will protect the safety of residents and visitors driving along the east-facing shores of O‘ahu as part of our efforts to maintain and improve conditions on roadways statewide,” said Governor Lingle.

The total cost of the project is estimated to be $13,345,000, which includes a previous state allotment of $1,030,000 for design work and federal funds totaling $9,668,000 for construction.

Construction began in May 2008 and is scheduled to be completed in October 2009.

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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