H-1, Moanalua work slated to start tomorrow

By Mike Leidemann
Advertiser Transportation Writer

Two of the state's biggest highway projects begin tomorrow.

The widening of H-1 Freeway near Waimalu and repaving of Moanalua Freeway is expected to cost a combined $68 million, state Transportation Department officials said.

Both projects are likely to require lane closures at least some time during the day and night, and both are expected to cause some traffic backlogs.

• The seven-month, $13 million effort to repave Moanalua Freeway will run Sundays through Thursdays from 9 p.m. to 4:30 a.m.

Work will start in the town-bound direction from Aloha Stadium to Kalihi, then switch to the other direction.

• The 18-month, $55-million Waimalu project is designed to widen the 'ewa-bound freeway to six lanes to the Pearl City off-ramp.

Most of the work along H-1 Freeway will be done during the mid-day and late evenings. Construction in the Waimalu residential neighborhood below the freeway will be limited to weekdays.

State officials have set up a hotline to provide up-to-date information on lane closures and construction times for both projects. The hotline, 587-6316, will be manned 24 hours a day.

In addition, the state has created a Web site with information about the Waimalu project. It can be reached at www.h1widening.com.

State officials reminded motorists that speed limits within the work zones will be lowered and violators are subject to fines of up to $250.

Reach Mike Leidemann at 525-5460 or mleidemann@honoluluadvertiser.com.