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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Thursday, February 14, 2008

BUREAUCRACY BUSTER
Left-turn signal work continuing

By Treena Shapiro
Advertiser Columnist

StoryChat: Comment on this story

Q. Years ago I heard a rumor that a left-turn signal light would be installed for cars to enter the Hawai'i Kai Shopping Center, where Safeway is located. Finally construction began five months ago and was completed in a timely manner.

Since completion, the signal lights have not been activated and there are signs saying "Caution Signal Modified" covered with cloth.

What's the delay and why aren't they in operation? It's a death trap trying to make a left-hand turn against oncoming traffic and the long line to enter often extends back onto Keahole Street causing traffic delays.

A. You aren't the only Hawai'i Kai resident wondering about this. It's been a long time since the project was approved back in 2005.

The lights aren't sitting there unused, they're only partially constructed.

While it looks like the contractor finished and moved on, workers are waiting for additional materials to arrive. They should be back in the next few weeks.

Richard Torres, deputy director of the city Department of Transportation Services, said the work is expected to be completed by April.

Assuming there are no electrical issues, the lights should be turned on soon after, Torres said.

Q. How do I dispose a moped?

A. I hate to answer a question with a question, but do you have a way to transport it?

I ask because a moped is too big to put out for the city's bulky trash collection but too small to be removed as a derelict vehicle. The city doesn't pick up anything smaller than a motorcycle.

While police would remove a derelict or abandoned moped, I assume this one is still in your possession.

The city Refuse Division advises calling Schnitzer Steel, formerly Hawai'i Metal Recycling, at 682-5810. Schnitzer buys mopeds, paying $40 per net ton.

Before you take it in, remove the tires and battery, drain all fluids and put a hole in the gas tank at least the size of your fist.

If you'd like to give the moped to someone who can use it, the city Department of Environmental Services lists several reuse organizations at http://envhonolulu.org/solid_waste/archive/Reuse.html.

You might want to try listing it at Freecycle Honolulu, where people can list items they want to give away. It's at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/FreecycleHonolulu.

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