The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) outlined on March 16 the ongoing recovery actions being taken by highway crews across the state following the recent Kona low pressure system.
The summary provided by HDOT highlights the importance of maintaining safe and accessible roadways for residents and travelers. The department manages a statewide highway system, along with airports and harbors, to support mobility and economic activity, according to the official website.
On Oahu, crews are addressing pothole repairs, clearing debris from roads and streams, pumping water in Waimanalo, repairing storm drains above the H-1 westbound Pali off-ramp, and working on slope stabilization at several locations including Kalanianaole Highway and Pali Highway. Rock scaling and fence repairs are also underway at Kamehameha Highway at Kipapa Gulch. HDOT engineers inspected Kamehameha Highway at Waimea Bay on March 15 and found no immediate danger to the road but will continue monitoring for long-term stability.
In Maui and Molokai, teams are clearing debris and mud from roads, inspecting bridges, culverts, rock embankments, outlet structures, identifying damaged guardrails, removing hazardous trees near Ukumehame Stream Bridge, filling potholes, checking traffic signals, and preparing repair plans. On Hawaii Island, crews are cleaning debris from roadsides and culverts while assessing routes for necessary repairs. Kauai experienced minimal impact but continues minor debris removal at Wailua Bridge.
According to the official website, HDOT operates as part of the executive branch of Hawaii’s government. The department oversees 11 commercial service airports, four general aviation airports, nine commercial harbors and maintains 2,450 lane miles of highways across all six major Hawaiian islands. Its mission is to deliver a safe and efficient transportation system that supports both people’s mobility needs and economic growth while enhancing quality of life.
HDOT collaborates with federal agencies such as the Federal Aviation Administration, U.S. Coast Guard and Federal Highway Administration as well as county planning departments to maintain its infrastructure statewide according to its official website.