The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) has announced its intent to declare a traffic emergency zone on Kamehameha Highway (Route 83) near Kualoa Regional Park. The action comes after an inspection on December 15 revealed coastal erosion had undermined the road, raising concerns about possible road failure.
Following the inspection, repair work began the next day. The repairs include building a boulder and cobble revetment and backfilling with Controlled Low Strength Material. Work is scheduled for weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. over a period of 15 days. During this time, the makai lane will be closed, and alternating traffic control will be in place for vehicles using the remaining lane.
To support ongoing emergency repairs, HDOT plans to designate this section of Kamehameha Highway as a traffic emergency zone under Hawai‘i Revised Statute §264-1.5.
A hearing is required within 24 hours of making such a designation according to state law. HDOT will hold this hearing virtually through Microsoft Teams on Thursday, December 18 at 10:30 a.m. Members of the public can join via an online link or by calling (808) 829-4853 and entering conference ID 769 592 041#.
HDOT manages transportation facilities across Hawaii, including airports, harbors, and highways that serve all six major islands (source). The department operates as part of the executive branch of Hawaii’s state government (source), overseeing planning, construction, maintenance, and coordination with federal and county agencies (source). Its goal is to maintain safe and efficient transportation systems supporting mobility for people and goods while fostering economic growth (source).
