One-Way Traffic Pattern in Keaukaha to Start Next Week

A one-way traffic pattern in Keaukaha, originally set for March, is planned to start next week.

Beginning Monday, April 13, 2020, a portion of Kalaniana‘ole Avenue in Hilo will have a one-way traffic pattern in effect 24 hours a day, seven days a week as part of an ongoing roadwork project.

The one-way pattern was postponed to allow for changes to improve traffic flow at the affected intersections. It is expected to be in effect for six months, weather and construction conditions permitting.

A detour will direct eastbound motorists traveling from Hilo to Keaukaha from the intersection of Kamehameha Avenue and Kanoelehua Avenue to continue east on Kamehameha Avenue then north to Silva Street to reconnect to Kalaniana‘ole Avenue.

Traffic will not be allowed eastbound on Kalaniana‘ole Avenue between Kamehameha Avenue to Silva Street.

Motorists traveling from Keaukaha to Hilo can travel westbound on Kalaniana‘ole Avenue between Silva Street and Kamehameha Avenue.

Signs and message boards will be posted advising motorists of the one-way traffic pattern. Motorists are advised to obey all traffic control devices, including special duty officers when on-scene and to drive with caution in the work zone. Motorists are also advised to allow for extra time while driving through the work areas and to expect delays.

The one-way traffic pattern is being implemented to allow the contractor to excavate and install a 12-inch waterline, relocate utility lines and pave both lanes of travel as expeditiously as possible. The 24-hour traffic pattern will reduce roadwork construction by an estimated 12 to 18 months. Due to the high number of residential properties in the area, it is not feasible to conduct the roadwork at night.

The Kalaniana’ole Avenue Improvement project, which began in March 2018, is a joint State of Hawai‘i Department of Transportation and County of Hawai‘i endeavor. It includes widening Kalaniana’ole Avenue from Kanoelehua Avenue to Kuhio Street (Hilo Harbor entrance), installing a concrete sidewalk on the makai side, a paved shoulder on the mauka side, bicycle lanes in each direction, one through lane in each direction, a shared turn lane, drainage improvements, utility relocation and the installation of a new 12-inch waterline.