County officials are proposing a $5.5 million improvement package for Ali'i Drive and Haleki'i Street in Kealakekua in anticipation of opening the Mamalahoa Highway bypass this summer.

The two-lane bypass is being constructed between the shoreline and Mamalahoa Highway to give motorists an alternate route between North and South Kona.

The proposed short-term improvements include stop signs at key intersections, upgrading traffic signals, widening shoulders and adding traffic-calming devices.

Long-term steps include new and improved traffic signals and a pedestrian and bike path on the mauka side of Ali'i Drive.

For more information on the project, visit www.co.hawaii.hi.us and check "Projects Update" and "Mamalahoa Bypass."