HONOLULU – Gov. Linda Lingle has released $535,000 to construct a left-turn lane on Kea'au-Pahoa Road into the Maku'u Farmers Market in Puna and to install guardrails in the area to provide a barrier between traffic and pedestrians.

Kea'au-Pahoa Road, which is the major two-lane route passing through the Puna District of the Big Island, has a 55 mph speed limit at the Maku'u Farmers Market site.

"This project will reduce traffic backup caused by cars turning left into the farmers market," Lingle said. "More importantly, it will enhance safety for pedestrians and fast-moving traffic along this portion of the highway."

The total project cost is estimated to be $540,000, of which $5,000 was previously released for design. Design is ongoing and scheduled to be completed this month. Construction is scheduled to begin in June and be completed in August.