GOVERNOR LINGLE APPROVES CONSTRUCTION FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO THE H-1 KINA‘U STREET OFF-RAMP

For Immediate Release:  February 22, 2007

HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle has approved the release of $1,707,000 in private funds for the Department of Transportation (DOT) to begin design and construction for improvements to the Kina‘u Street off-ramp from the eastbound H-1 Freeway.  While no state funds will be used for the project, the DOT will act as the expending agency for the Federal and private funds.

The project will add a deceleration lane and right turn lane onto Lusitana Street.  This improvement will provide a more direct route to the Queen’s Hospital campus from the H-1 Freeway.  Other improvements include upgrading retaining walls and providing for the relocation of utilities near the off-ramp. 

“A direct route to the hospital will not only help to alleviate traffic congestion on the H-1 Freeway, but will also ensure more immediate medical attention for those in need,” said Department of Transportation Director Barry Fukunaga.

“Providing quicker access to Queen’s Hospital from the H-1 Freeway will benefit O‘ahu residents and medical personnel alike and is part of the state’s ongoing efforts to develop innovative solutions to relieve traffic congestion,” said Governor Lingle. 

The total project cost is $3,508,973, with $1,722,600 in federal funds, $1,707,000 in funding from Queen’s Hospital and $79,373 in other funds from Hawaiian Electric and Hawaiian Telcom, to cover the expense of relocating the utilities.  Construction is expected to begin in September 2007, with completion in June 2008.  The Kina‘u off-ramp will remain open during construction.

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For more information, contact:
Barry Fukunaga  
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