The Hawaii Department of Transportation announced on April 9 that all special-use lanes on Kaua‘i and O‘ahu will not be operational Friday, April 10, as crews respond to the impacts of a severe weather system. The list of affected special-use lanes includes the Zipperlane and the Kῡhiō Highway Southbound Contraflow.
This temporary suspension is intended to support safety for road users while maintenance teams address weather-related issues. The department advised drivers to stay informed through emergency notifications and avoid travel during active flood and wind warnings unless evacuation or avoiding a life-threatening situation is necessary.
The Kea‘au-Pāhoa Road Northbound Contraflow will remain in operation because schools and state offices are open on Hawai‘i Island. There are no special-use lanes in Maui County, according to information provided by the department.
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. The department functions as part of the executive branch of the State of Hawaii government according to its official website. It operates 11 commercial service airports, four general aviation airports, nine commercial harbors, and maintains approximately 2,450 lane miles of highways across six major Hawaiian islands according to its official website.
The agency aims 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 website. Its services extend across all six major Hawaiian islands according to its official website. The department also collaborates with federal agencies such as the Federal Aviation Administration, U.S. Coast Guard, Federal Highway Administration, as well as county planning departments according to its official website.
Travelers are encouraged by HDOT officials to remain alert for further updates regarding lane operations as weather conditions develop.
