The Hawaii Department of Transportation announced on March 25 that Māmalahoa Highway (Route 11) in Nāʻālehu will be reduced to a single lane for emergency road repairs over the next six days, with work scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The repair work is needed after a recent Kona low storm caused damage by undermining the shoulders and creating major potholes along this section of highway. Crews are set to resurface the roadway during this period. During construction hours, traffic will alternate through one open lane, with flaggers and electronic message boards assisting drivers.
The department said that all work is weather permitting and advised motorists to check for weekly closure updates on Hawaiʻi Island at its official website. According to the official website, the Hawaii Department of Transportation manages facilities including multiple airports for domestic and international carriers, commercial harbors, and a statewide highway system.
As reported by the official website, the department operates as part of the executive branch of Hawaii’s state government and oversees transportation infrastructure across all six major Hawaiian islands. The agency manages 11 commercial service airports, four general aviation airports, nine commercial harbors, and approximately 2,450 lane miles of highways according to its official site.
The department works closely with federal agencies such as the Federal Aviation Administration, U.S. Coast Guard, Federal Highway Administration, as well as county planning and public works departments according to its official website. Its stated aim is “to deliver a safe, efficient, accessible and sustainable transportation system that supports mobility for people and goods while fostering economic growth and quality of life” according to its official site.