I found out that the winning 6(5) phase bidder will get a notice to proceed in November 2008 (I would figure as long as no further glitches are encountered in the bidding process).
Since the 6(5) phase entails only paving the newly re-aligned Saddle Road constructed by Goodfellow Brothers and Kiewit Pacific Company.Thus it is very possible that it may be opened to the public by the summer of 2009.Especially since the 6(3) phase which entailed paving between m.m 29 and m.m 35 took a little over 8 months to complete.If I’m able to get more information about this phase I’ll certainly post it here.
In other road news below is the latest update I received in regards to the Queen Kaahumanu Highway Phase I widening project :
“Hi Aaron,
With the waterlines, concrete curbing, roadway excavation, underground utility crossing, all this work needs to be completed before start work for the new inbound lanes. HDCC did not give a date for paving the inbound lanes.
Late August should complete the the right turn lane from the airport onto Makala, if HELCO removes the poles in the new pavement (Makala makai).
Changing traffic lanes at Palani and Makala, for HDCC construction work, is on-going with readjusting the traffic signal timing due to the traffic moves from one intersection to another to avoid delays. This adds to traffic signal timing problems.
That’s all I have for now. “
To whom this may concern,
I manage a shop located in Kona’s Old Industrial area. I have been anxiously awaiting completion of the Queen Kaahumanu highway improvement project in hopes that it would provide some relief to traffic congestion and improve traffic flow to all areas of Kona. The recent opening of the North bound traveling lane and resulting closure of the former Northbound turn lane into the Old Industrial area on Kaiwi Street is having an unforeseen and detrimental impact on our business. I realize that economic conditions play a role however the altered traffic situation is clearly having a substantial impact too. I have had discussions with other owners and manager’s of businesses located in our general vicinity and most concur that we have noticed a marked reduction in customer’s visiting our locations. Business traffic in the Old Industrial area is drying up. Our sales figures for July are definitely down. Businesses rely heavily on both local and tourist traffic. Awareness was formerly created by visibility and access to this area. Locating specific businesses in this area has always proved challenging however things have been exacerbated by having the Northbound lane completely out of eyesight now. There is no left turn access on Kaiwi Street. The only access to this area from the highway is on Makala Street leading to Kona International Marketplace. No signage to indicate the significant density of businesses in this area. Finding locations on the North side of the Industrial area requires traveling across Luhia and Kaiwi Streets at the 4 way stop. This location which has always been treacherous is now even more hazardous and severely restricts flow to this area.
I have many questions as do others I have spoken with regarding time frame and final plans for this project. As this project completes are there any remedies that might allow for input and changes to ensure a positive outcome for everyone? How can I find out if signage from the highway will be created to support and direct traffic to this area? When will the Southbound lane turn past The Harley Davidson be opened? Something needs to be done now. This economic downturn is coupled for businesses in Old Industrial by essentially shutting down flow to this area. Only those locals who know the area know how to come around from Kuakini Hwy. Tourist traffic is virtually eliminated. What can be done now and who would those affected contact for help. I sincerely hope that someone is able to direct us to the proper channels for both voicing our concerns but also to the people that can assist us in creating viable solutions.
Comment by C.D. — July 26, 2008 @ 3:54 pm