Hawai‘i County Department of Water Supply briefs: Leaking waterline repairs, hydrant flow tests, poster contest deadline extended

Here is a look at current and upcoming work being done by Hawai‘i County Department of Water Supply around the Big Island. The department’s annual keiki poster contest also extended its deadline to enter.

Check out the details and more information about Water Supply news below.

One lane closed for work near Camp Honokaia in Honoka‘a

Water Supply crews continue work on Māmalahoa Highway (Highway 19) until 2:30 p.m. today (March 18) near the Boy Scouts of America Camp Honokaia in Honoka‘a to make urgent repairs on a leaking waterline.

One lane of alternating traffic is open at this time. Motorists should expect delays and plan accordingly until the work is complete.

Contact district supervisor Darroll Naungayan at (808) 887-3030 with any questions or concerns.

Fire hydrant flow tests scheduled for areas in Kailua-Kona

Water Supply customers along Pāwai Place in Kailua-Kona are notified that the department will conduct a fire hydrant flow test in their area from 11 p.m. to midnight March 18.

The department also notifies customers along Henry and Alahou streets, between Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway and Kuakini Highway, that it will conduct a fire hydrant flow test in their area from 11 p.m. to midnight March 25.

Customers in the affected areas could experience slightly discolored and turbid water for several hours after the test.

They should refrain from washing clothes and store a container of water for drinking needs until normal water service is restored.

Anyone who experiences unusual problems during or after the flushing period should call district supervisors Joshule Johnston or Dustin Kaneta-Ogata at 808-322-0600.

Deadline extended to enter 7th annual Keiki Water Conservation Poster Contest

Water Supply extended the entry deadline for its seventh annual Keiki Water Conservation Poster Contest through April 30.

The extension provides island students in kindergarten through sixth grade more time to submit their original artwork illustrating this year’s theme “Being Water Wise is …” by showing how using water wisely helps conserve safe drinking water.

Entries will be judged based on creativity, originality and depiction of the theme.

Entry forms must be attached with each poster and are available on the Water Supply website, via email at dws@hawaiidws.org or by calling the department at 808-961-8050.

Contest entries should be mailed to Water Supply in Hilo or dropped off by April 30 at department offices in Hilo, Kona or Waimea.

Office locations and contest rules, as well as water conservation educational resources, can be found at the Water Supply website above.

There is no charge to enter. Prizes — $150 for first place, $100 for second place and $50 for third place — will be awarded to the top three entries in each grade level.