Speed limit on 5.5-mile stretch of Volcano Road to be reduced to 35 mph

The speed limit on Volcano Road (Route 11) between South Road and Pszyk Road, and through Kurtistown and Mountain View in East Hawaiʻi, will be reduced to 35 mph in both directions, announced the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation.

The new speed limit goes into effect for this 5.5-mile stretch south of Hilo on Jan. 23, with the installation of new speed limit signage.

The speed limit now varies from 45 to 55 mph depending on the direction of travel. 

The state department of transportation said the speed limit is being lowered to improve safety. A consistent and manageable speed supports operation at the five crosswalks without signals, two traffic signals and pedestrians going between two community parks. 

HDOT has been actively managing speed in areas we anticipate high rates of vehicles, pedestrians and bicyclists. This improves safety by increasing reaction time for drivers and other users and improves survivability if a crash does occur.

By normalizing safe speed limits, right sizing corridors and upgrading infrastructure with features that guide the user to appropriate speeds such as roundabouts and raised crosswalks, we can reduce serious traffic injuries and fatalities while ensuring an efficient system.