The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT) has announced a planned reduction in the speed limit on Kuakini Highway (Route 11) in Kona. The affected section lies between mile markers 113.6 and 117.1, stretching from Old Mamalahoa Highway to Kamehameha III Road.
Currently, the speed limit on this segment is 55 mph. HDOT will lower the limit to 45 mph. The change will take effect 30 days after the date of the announcement, once the new speed limit signs are installed. The new limit will apply to both directions of travel.
According to HDOT, the decision aims to create a safer and more consistent speed environment for this part of Hawaiʻi Belt Road. The section includes community gathering spots such as Harold H. Higashihara Park, Kamakana Playground, a church, and a scenic point.
HDOT stated, “The purpose of the speed reduction is to provide a manageable, safe and consistent speed limit for this section of Hawaiʻi Belt Road (Route 11). Along this segment of the roadway are gathering places for the community and children such as the Harold H. Higashihara Park and Kamakana Playground, along with a church and a scenic point.”
The department noted that it manages speed on state roads through various measures, including speed limit signs, road resizing, roundabouts, and raised pedestrian crosswalks where appropriate. HDOT said, “Implementing speed management and traffic-calming devices can reduce serious traffic injuries and fatalities while ensuring an efficient system.”
