Traffic was flowing in both directions on Honoapiilani Highway near Launiupoko on Tuesday after new barriers were put in place Monday afternoon to detour traffic around erosion damage that undermined the Kihei-bound shoulder of the road.
Lanes were shifted 6 feet inland, with Lahaina-bound traffic using the mauka side shoulder, "to allow for a continuous flow of two-way traffic," said Caroline Sluyter, spokeswoman for the state Department of Transportation.
The erosion damage, caused by ocean waves, created a crack in the asphalt pavement. On Monday, the Kihei-bound lane of the highway was closed from Front Street to Kai Hele Ku Street, with the Lahaina-bound lane used for contraflow.
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Honoapiilani Highway in the area of Launiupoko again had two lanes of traffic flowing Tuesday. One lane had been closed Monday due to wave damage that undermined the highway. Lanes were shifted 6 feet inland, with Lahaina-bound traffic using the mauka side shoulder.
Hawaii Department of Transportation photo
Sluyter said repairs began Tuesday, with paving tentatively scheduled for tonight, weather permitting. She said temporary pavement markers will be installed until permanent markers can be installed. The approximate cost of the temporary repairs is $100,000.
Future plans for a more permanent erosion mitigation project will be determined following completion of this project.
Speed limits have been reduced approaching the work zone. Motorists are advised to expect delays and to follow all posted traffic control devices through the area.
