Kūhiō Highway Emergency Repair Update

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the Kūhiō Highway Emergency Repairs

 1. When is the road going to reopen?

As of January 2019, HDOT estimates the slope stabilization and roadway repairs needed to safely open Kūhiō Highway past Anae Road (the Waikoko Checkpoint) to two-way traffic will be subtantially complete in April 2019. The limited access convoy for Wainiha and Haena residents will continue to operate until such time as HDOT determines it is safe to allow access without it.

2. Why are the road repairs taking so long?

The April 2018 flood caused significant damage to approximately 32 areas on Kūhiō Highway and set the nationwide 24-hour rainfall total.[1] HDOT committed to repairing the areas where the highway was washed away as well as doing slope stabilization to improve the dependability of the route in the future.   

3. Why can’t residents have free access to the road when construction stops for the night?

Convoy operations through the various construction zones, especially those involving stabilization of slopes above and below the highway, require escort for the safety of those travelling the road. There are many areas where the speed limit has been reduced and the road has been weight restricted for safety and to ensure no further damage to the roadway. Running the convoys ensures that motorists traverse the road safely and do not cause additional damage. HDOT is continuing to explore options to increase service to the community while keeping available resources in mind.

4. How can residents obtain passes?

Resident placards, work passes, and shuttle passes are verified and distributed by the County of Kauai Planning Department. More information on the needed identification for passes can be found at https://www.kauai.gov/Government/Departments-Agencies/Emergency-Management-Agency-formerly-Civil-Defense/April-2018-Flooding

5. Are non-residents allowed to walk or bike past the checkpoint?

No. Only authorized individuals and vehicles are permitted to enter past the road closure for safety reasons.

6. Are tourists able to access North Kauai landmarks such as the Haena State Park, the Napali Coast State Wilderness Park, Kee Beach, and Tunnels?

Haena State Park and the Napali Coast State Wilderness Park were damaged in the April flood and remain closed. Please refer to the Department of Land and Natural Resources at

http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/kauai/napali-coast-state-wilderness-park/ for more information. Access to Kee Beach and Tunnels is not permitted for unauthorized individuals as they are past the road closure.

7. I am a TVR owner. The road closure is hurting my ability to operate my vacation rental. What can I do?

The U.S. Small Business Administration authorized Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) for the April Flood. EIDLs are meant to help small businesses meet the ordinary and necessary financial obligations that cannot be fulfilled because of the disaster. The EIDL filing deadline is March 27, 2019. More information on this program can be found at

https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/Declarations/ViewDisasterDocument/1679  

8. Will there still be road work ongoing when the road reopens?

Depending on the work requirements there may be lane closures with alternating traffic control after the road is reopened.

9. Who can I contact to report uncovered work trucks or other construction-related issues?

Please call our 24-hour project hotline at (808) 230-0796 or toll-free at 1 (800) 722-9012. Project related emails may be sent to kuhiohighwayemergencyrepairs@gmail.com or dotpao@hawaii.gov

[1] The April 2018 flood, which brought nearly 50 inches of rain in a 24-hour period to Kauai (based on Waipa rain gage data from April 14-15 of 49.69 inches), potentially sets the national rainfall record previously set by a 43-inch rainfall total in Alvin, Texas.

See http://www.nws.noaa.gov/oh/hdsc/record_precip/record_precip_us.html

SPECIAL NEW YEAR’S SCHEDULE FOR RESIDENTIAL ACCESS TO WAINIHA AND HAENA

The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) announces two additional convoys for limited access to Kuhio Highway (Route 560) between Waikoko and Wainiha for the New Year’s holiday. On Jan. 1, 2019, a 12:30 a.m. convoy from Wainiha to Waikoko and a 1 a.m. convoy from Waikoko to Wainiha will be added.

The Sunday/Holiday schedule for New Year’s holiday will be in effect from Saturday, Dec. 29 through Tuesday, Jan. 1. Regular convoy schedule to resume Wednesday, Jan. 2. The full Sunday/Holiday schedule is:

Sundays/Holidays

• 6 a.m. First trip from Wainiha to Waikoko.

• 6:30 a.m. First trip from Waikoko to Wainiha.

• 7 a.m. Wainiha to Waikoko

• 7:30 a.m. Waikoko to Wainiha

• 8 a.m. Wainiha to Waikoko

• 8:30 a.m. Waikoko to Wainiha

• 9 a.m. Wainiha to Waikoko

• 9:30 a.m. Waikoko to Wainiha

• 10 a.m. Wainiha to Waikoko

• 10:30 a.m. Waikoko to Wainiha

• 11 a.m. Wainiha to Waikoko

• 11:30 a.m. Waikoko to Wainiha

• 12 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko

• 12:30 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha

• 1 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko

• 1:30 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha

• 2 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko

• 2:30 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha

• 3 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko

• 3:30 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha

• 4 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko

• 4:30 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha

• 5 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko

• 5:30 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha

• 6 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko

• 6:30 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha

• 7 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko

• 7:30 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko

• 8 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha

• 8:30 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko

• 9 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko

• 9:30 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha

• 10 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko

• 10:30 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko

• 11 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha

• 12:30 a.m. Wainiha to Waikoko (JAN. 1, 2019 ONLY)

• 1 a.m. Waikoko to Wainiha (JAN. 1, 2019 ONLY)

As a reminder, the single lane route is available to Wainiha and Haena residents only as well as precleared construction workers and volunteers. Those without county-issued placards or preclearance will not be allowed through the checkpoints for their safety, the safety of the construction crews, and to avoid additional damage to the roadway.

2018 Kuhio Highway Emergency Links and Updates

HDOT is working to expedite flood repairs to Kuhio HIghway on the north shore of Kauai following the historic flood event on April 14, 2018. Please follow the link to access the webpage:

https://hidot.hawaii.gov/highways/2018-kuhio-highway-emergency-repairs/

This page consolidates information on the repairs, convoy schedule, and other details relating to the repairs and the information will be updated as quickly as possible.

More Rapid Ohia Death Confirmed on Kauai; Preventive Steps Needed By Kamaaina and Visitors

Rapid ʻŌhi‘a Death (ROD), a disease killing ʻōhiʻa trees, has been confirmed at two new locations on Kaua‘i. Since ROD was discovered in Moloa‘a State Forest Reserve in 14 trees earlier this year, a collaborative team of scientists from state, federal, and private organizations has been working together to survey the island and develop response plans to an introduced disease threat facing Hawai‘i’s native tree. ʻŌhiʻa is considered foundational to Hawaiian forests and culture.

Teams conducted aerial drone flights and helicopter surveys using digital mobile sketch mapping and identified 22 areas on state and private lands with ʻōhiʻa trees showing symptoms consistent with the disease. So far in 2018, 76 samples have been collected and submitted for lab testing. Since the Moloa‘a detection in the spring, three more trees have been confirmed to have Ceratocystis huliohia, the less virulent of the two species of fungi that cause ROD. On Hawai‘i Island, scientists at the U.S. Department of Agriculture identified the two-different species of fungi that cause ROD, C. huliohia and C. lukuohia. Both species are new to science.

The new positive detections come from privately-owned land in Halelea Moku and near the Lihue-Koloa Forest Reserve. This locates ROD at three distinct locations on the island at elevations ranging from 600 to 1,600 feet above sea level.

“This new detection is the same species of Ceratocystis found in Moloa‘a where it was evident the trees had been dead for some time,” said Sheri S. Mann, Kaua‘i Branch Manager for the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW). “We are finding trees with ROD now because we are searching for them. It’s clear we must be vigilant about doing what we can to stop the spread of C. huliohia and, especially, to prevent the introduction of the more aggressive C. lukuohia.”

Since ROD was identified on Hawai‘i Island more than four years ago, it has affected more than 135,000 acres of ʻōhiʻa forest. On the older smaller island of Kaua‘i, ʻōhiʻa are relegated to remnant forested areas, and any loss is profoundly detrimental to endangered native birds and other plants, insects and animals that rely on them for survival.

Research partners from many organizations have made significant progress in understanding the disease. One of the biggest is how the fungus enters trees. “It’s clear that both fungal species enter trees through wounds, as do many other tree diseases, so it’s important not to wound them by taking clippings, trimming, or stepping on roots,” said Tiffani Keanini, project manager of Kaua‘i Invasive Species Committee (KISC). “The next layer of defense is to avoid spreading the fungus by scrubbing all footwear clean of mud and spraying with 70% isopropyl alcohol after any forest activity, washing all gear and clothing, and thoroughly washing any equipment and vehicles--especially tires--that enter or are used in the forest, along roadsides, or off road.”

Scientists are also investigating the role burrowing beetles play in spreading the fungus. Once the fungal spores enter the trees, the disease advances by cutting off the tree’s flow of water.

Providing a bit of hopeful news, some ʻōhi‘a trees on Hawai‘i Island are showing tolerance to the disease, as are some forest types.

“At this point, only one of the two fungal pathogens have been confirmed on Kaua‘i,” said Melissa Fisher, Kaua‘i Forest Program Director, The Nature Conservancy. “Now we need everyone to be extra vigilant to prevent further spread of the existing disease and help to keep the other ROD-causing pathogen off our island as well.”

Since the ROD detection in Moloa‘a, a rapid response team including scientists and managers from DLNR/DOFAW, KISC, The Nature Conservancy, National Tropical Botanical Garden, Kaua‘i Watershed Alliance, and the University of Hawai‘i has been working together to conduct additional sampling island-wide and evaluate the most appropriate next steps. One way kama‘aina and visitors can help prevent the spread of ROD is by following these key five guidelines:

1) Keep your eyes open. If you see ʻōhiʻa with a limb or crown turning brown, take a picture, and contact KISC via email (saveohia@hawaii.edu) or phone (808-821-1490). Samples of the wood must be taken by trained technicians and tested in a laboratory to confirm the presence of the ROD fungi.

2) Avoid injuring ʻōhiʻa. Wounds serve as entry points for the fungus and increase the odds that the tree will become infected and die from ROD. Avoid pruning and contact with heavy equipment wherever possible.

3) Clean gear and tools, including shoes and clothes, before and after entering the forest and areas where ʻōhiʻa may be present. Brush all soil off tools and gear, then spray with 70% rubbing alcohol. Wash clothes with hot water and soap.

4) Wash your vehicle with a high-pressure hose or washer if you’ve been off-roading or have picked up mud from driving. Clean all soil off tires--including mountain bikes and motorcycles--and vehicle undercarriage.

5) Don’t move ʻōhiʻa wood or ʻōhiʻa parts, including adjacent soil. The disease can be spread to new areas by moving plants, plant parts, and wood from infected areas to non-infected areas.

The visitor industry can help, too, by adopting bio-sanitation practices. On Wednesday, December 12, from 1:00 to 3:30 p.m., land-based tour operators are encouraged to attend a free workshop on how to prevent the spread of Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death on Kaua‘i. The course covers best sanitation practices for tour operators so guides and guests can feel confident about minimizing their impact on Kaua‘i’s native landscape. The workshop will be held at the Kaua‘i Agricultural Research Station at 7370-K Kuamo’o Road in Kapa‘a. Interested parties can sign up at www.rapidohiadeath.org. Registration is required.

‘Ōhiʻa is the keystone species of the Hawaiian forest, and the trees are considered critical to the function of Hawaiian watersheds and the ecology of Hawai‘i, as evidenced by this Hawaiian mo‘olelo (saying): I walea ka manu i ka ‘ula o ka lehua. The bird is attracted by the redness of the lehua. ‘Ōhiʻa also plays an important role in Hawaiian culture.

You can learn more about ʻōhiʻa, its role in the culture, and ROD on Tuesday, December 11, 2018, starting at 5:30 p.m., at the Kaua‘i premier of “Saving ‘Ōhiʻa.” The documentary is part of the collaborative National Tropical Garden-Kauai Community College 'Earth Matters' public lecture series and will air in the KCC Campus Center Cafeteria (behind the Performing Arts Center).

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MEDIA RESOURCES

(All images/video courtesy: DLNR)

HD video-field survey training, digital sketch mapping (May 11, 2018)

https://vimeo.com/269082425 (shot sheet attached)

HD video-Kauai Rapid Ōhiʻa Death video news release (May 11, 2018)

https://vimeo.com/269288041

Photographs-digital sketch mapping, field survey training: (cut sheet attached)

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/mq70cw6a28ntdvv/AADuifNH5sjB19l0e0ZSRz7ba?dl=0

Video-Ceratocystis: Tale of Two Species & Screening for Resistance:

https://vimeo.com/258657188

For more on Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death:

https://cms.ctahr.hawaii.edu/rod/

Media Contacts:

Kaua‘i Invasive Species Committee

Kim S. Rogers

(808) 821-1490

(808) 634-6667 (cell)

saveohia@hawaii.edu

Dept. of Land and Natural Resources

Dan Dennison

Senior Communications Manager

(808) 587-0396

Dan.w.dennison@hawaii.gov

Disaster Recovery Center will Open in Honolulu and Kauai Counties

HONOLULU – Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC), jointly operated by the state of Hawai‘i and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), will open in Kaua‘i and Honolulu Counties. The center will offer residents affected by the April flooding, mudslides and landslides that took place in the City and County of Honolulu and Kaua‘i County, a one-stop shop for disaster assistance.

The center locations are:

  Kaua‘i

• • Hanalei Elementary School Cafeteria; 5-5415 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI
    • Service:  FEMA; Small Business Administration (SBA); State and County Agencies
    • Opens Friday, 6/29/18; open daily from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

In observance of Independence Day on Wednesday, July 4, modified hours will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

• • Kōloa Elementary School Humanities Room; 3223 Poipu Road, Koloa, HI
    • Service: FEMA registration/intake; SBA; County Agencies
    • Opens Friday, 6/29/18; open Thursday- Saturday from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
    •  
• • Kapa‘a Elementary School Cafeteria: 4886 Kawaihau Road, Kapaa, HI
    • Service:  FEMA registration/intake; SBA; County Agencies
    • Opens Sunday, 7/1/18; open Sunday-Wednesday from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

In observance of Independence Day on Wednesday, July 4, modified hours will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Oahu

• • Aina Haina Elementary ; 801 W. Hind Drive, Honolulu, HI
    • Service: FEMA; SBA; State Agencies
    • Opens Friday, 6/29/18; open daily from 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

In observance of Independence Day on Wednesday, July 4, modified hours will be from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

• • Keolu Elementary; 1416 Keolu Drive, Kailua, HI
    • Service: FEMA registration/intake; SBA
    • Opens Monday, 7/2/18; open daily from 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

                       In observance of Independence Day on Wednesday, July 4, modified hours  

                      will be from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Federal Disaster Assistance American Sign Language video (FEMA Registration Process - Home Inspections) https://youtu.be/lIPRL0A2D14

Staffing the DRC are representatives from FEMA, the State, the U.S. Small Business Administration, state and local agencies. Survivors can meet face to face to have their questions answered and may register at the DRC.

Applicants should have the following information at hand:

·         Social Security number

·         Address of the damaged primary residence

·         Description of the damage

·         Insurance information

·         A current contact telephone number

·         An address where they can receive mail

·         Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of funds

Survivors can also apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by phone at 800-621-3362 or (TTY) 800-462-7585. Applicants who use 711 or Video Relay Service may call 800-621-3362. The toll-free numbers are open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. HST seven days a week.

To apply for SBA low-interest disaster loans, business owners, private nonprofits, homeowners and renters can visit the disaster recovery center for one-on-one assistance or apply online using SBA’s secure website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.

In addition, applicants can get more information on SBA disaster assistance by calling SBA’s

Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955, by visiting www.sba.gov/disaster, or by emailing

disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing may call

800- 877-8339.

Paper applications may be requested, and completed paper applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.

Updated Schedule For Limited Local Access To Wainiha, Haena via Kuhio Highway

LIHUE – The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) announces the following modifications to the schedule for limited local access to the communities of Wainiha and Haena on the north shore of Kauai to take effect beginning Friday, June 22, 2018.

Monday through Saturday (MODIFIED 6/22)

• 6 a.m. First trip from Waikoko to Wainiha.
• 6:30 a.m. First trip from Wainiha to Waikoko, to include shuttle.
• 8:30 a.m. Waikoko to Wainiha.
• 9 a.m. Wainiha to Waikoko, to include shuttle.
• 12 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha.
• 12:20 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko, to include shuttle.
• 12:40 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha, to include shuttle.
• 1 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko.
• 5 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha
• 5:20 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko, to include shuttle. (modified 6/22)
• 5:40 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha, to include shuttle. (modified 6/22)
• 6 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko, to include shuttle. (modified 6/22)
• 6:30 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha, to include shuttle. (modified 6/22)
• 6:45 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko (modified 6/22)
• 10:30 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 11 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha (the last trip of the day)

Sunday and Holidays (MODIFIED 6/22)

• 7 a.m. First trip from Waikoko to Wainiha
• 7:30 a.m. First trip from Wainiha to Waikoko, to include shuttle.
• 8 a.m. Waikoko to Wainiha, to include shuttle.
• 8:30 a.m. Wainiha to Waikoko, to include shuttle.
• 9 a.m. Waikoko to Wainiha, to include shuttle.
• 9:30 a.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 10 a.m. Waikoko to Wainiha
• 10:30 a.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 11 a.m. Waikoko to Wainiha
• 11:30 a.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 12 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha
• 12:30 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko, to include shuttle.
• 1 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha, to include shuttle.
• 1:30 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 2 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha
• 2:30 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 3 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha
• 3:30 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 4 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha
• 4:30 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 5 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha
• 5:20 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko, to include shuttle. (modified 6/22)
• 5:40 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha, to include shuttle. (modified 6/22)
• 6 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko, to include shuttle. (modified 6/22)
• 6:30 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha, to include shuttle. (modified 6/22)
• 6:45 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko (modified 6/22)
• 10:30 p.m. Last trip from Wainiha to Waikoko
• 11 p.m. Last trip from Waikoko to Wainiha

Please note that construction activities Monday through Saturday may sometimes result in slight delays to the schedule as the crews button up to make it safe for vehicles to pass, but the convoy will not leave prior to the scheduled time. The schedule for the 5 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. convoys may not be exact depending on the number of cars queued and the shortened time frame between trips.

HDOT is currently anticipating emergency repairs and bridge upgrades to be completed and the road to open to all traffic without convoys in October.

Kuhio Highway Resurfacing Project From Kuamoo Road to Kapaa Bypass in Wailua Begins Sunday, June 24

LIHUE – The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) notifies the public that Kuhio Highway from Kuamoo Road to Kapaa Bypass, in the vicinity of the former Coco Palms property, will be resurfaced beginning on Sunday night, June 24, 2018. Lane closures will occur weekly on Sunday nights through Thursday nights from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., nightly.

Next week one lane will be closed on Kuhio Highway on Sunday night, June 24, 2018 through Friday morning, June 29, 2018. The direction of the closed lane will vary based on the work. Traffic will be maintained in both directions in the two remaining open lanes.

The project includes the reconstruction of weakened pavement areas, resurfacing, pavement markings, and traffic signal upgrades at the Haleilio Road and Kuamoo Road intersections with Kuhio Highway.

Work is expected to be completed by the end of Summer 2018. Roadwork is weather permitting.

HDOT advises motorists to drive with caution and to follow all traffic control signs when entering the work zone area. Weekly roadwork information for this project will be posted to the HDOT website at http://hidot.hawaii.gov/highways/roadwork/kauai/

Kuhio Highway Emergency Flood Repair Update: June 19, 2018

LIHUE – The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) has advertised an emergency contract for additional Kuhio Highway Emergency Flood Repairs and will be awarding the contract shortly. The contract includes work to stabilize the slope above Kuhio Highway (Route 560) between Waikoko and Wainiha and various downslope sites on Kuhio Highway.

Work will continue on a six day a week, 10-hour a day schedule for the near future. Limited local access utilizing the convoy system will continue until the work is completed in October. Currently there two crews installing soil nail and shotcrete anchor structures at the two makai slopes at Waikoko and Wainiha where the roadway structure was washed out. Once the contract for emergency repairs is awarded, an additional crew will be working on the Wainiha Mauka Slope and at various sites where the makai slope was compromised.

A separate contract for the update of the Waikoko, Waipa, and Waioli bridges (the 3W bridges) will be awarded as the environmental documentation for that project is completed. The bridge upgrades are necessary to expedite the recovery efforts on Kuhio Highway as the existing structures are load restricted to 8 tons. This severely limits the amount of landslide and other debris that can be removed from the area. The upgraded bridges will be rated to 16 tons with emergency capacity of 25 tons.

The revised cost estimate for the emergency flood repairs on Kuhio Highway and the upgrade of the 3Ws is $80 million. The majority of costs for the Kuhio Highway emergency flood repairs is expected to be eligible for reimbursement through the Federal Highways Administration’s Emergency Relief program.

HDOT initially planned to conduct the bridge work at night but will modify the schedule in response to noise concerns from the public. Limited local access during the bridge upgrades and emergency flood repairs will continue to be available according to the posted schedule:

Monday through Saturday (MODIFIED 6/19)

• 6 a.m. First trip from Waikoko to Wainiha.
• 6:30 a.m. First trip from Wainiha to Waikoko, to include shuttle.
• 8:30 a.m. Waikoko to Wainiha.
• 9 a.m. Wainiha to Waikoko.
• 12 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha.
• 12:20 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko, to include shuttle.
• 12:40 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha, to include shuttle.
• 1 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko.
• 5 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha
• 5:30 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 6 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha
• 6:30 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 10:30 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 11 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha (the last trip of the day)

Sunday and Holidays (MODIFIED 6/19)

• 7 a.m. First trip from Waikoko to Wainiha
• 7:30 a.m. First trip from Wainiha to Waikoko
• 8 a.m. Waikoko to Wainiha
• 8:30 a.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 9 a.m. Waikoko to Wainiha
• 9:30 a.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 10 a.m. Waikoko to Wainiha
• 10:30 a.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 11 a.m. Waikoko to Wainiha
• 11:30 a.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 12 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha
• 12:30 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 1 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha
• 1:30 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 2 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha
• 2:30 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 3 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha
• 3:30 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 4 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha
• 4:30 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 5 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha
• 5:30 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 6 p.m. Waikoko to Wainiha
• 6:30 p.m. Wainiha to Waikoko
• 10:30 p.m. Last trip from Wainiha to Waikoko
• 11 p.m. Last trip from Waikoko to Wainiha

Please note that construction activities Monday through Saturday may sometimes result in slight delays to the schedule as the crews button up construction activities to make it safe for vehicles to pass, but the convoy will not leave prior to the scheduled time.

A general timeline of the emergency flood repairs on Kuhio Highway is below:

Timeline:

April 14-15, Historic flood event causing over a dozen landslides and five areas to be compromised on Kuhio Highway on the North Shore of Kauai.

April 28, 1-lane emergency access route opened for emergency vehicles only

May 3, $8 million in quick release Emergency Relief funds approved by FHWA

May 4, limited local access opened, crews shift from 12-hour days, seven days a week to 10-hour days, six days a week

May 29, Section 106 consultation held

May 30, late-night convoy added to local access schedule

May 31, weight restriction on route increased from 5 tons to 8 tons due to completion of the first phase of the slope stabilization below the highway in Wainiha

June 7, advertised emergency contract for additional slope stabilization, upgrades to Waikoko, Waipa, and Waioli Bridges

June 15, the State Historic Preservation Division concurs with Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Section 106 and applicable Section 4(f) findings.

Anticipated dates (subject to change):

June 22, Section 106 Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to be executed.  FHWA National Environmental Policy Act, Section 106, Section 4(f), and related approvals finalized and cleared.

October, emergency repairs and bridge upgrades to be completed; road to open to all traffic without convoys.

http://hidot.hawaii.gov/blog/2018/06/19/june-19-2018-kuhio-highway-emergency-flood-repair-update/

Enhanced Absentee Mail Voting Services For Voters Impacted By North Shore Flooding

Līhu‘e, Kaua‘i – The Office of the County Clerk, Elections Division is initiating enhanced absentee mail voting services for registered voters of the North Shore who were directly impacted by the flooding that occurred in April 2018.

Due to the on-going recovery efforts and restricted routes of travel from Wainiha to Hā‘ena, registered voters residing inside the security checkpoint will be mailed information on the upcoming Primary Election and an absentee ballot application, and are encouraged to complete and submit the application as soon as possible.

Absentee ballot applications will also be available the security checkpoints and at the Hanalei Colony Resort.  Additionally, anyone with a valid Hawai‘i driver's license or Hawai‘i state identification card can register to vote and apply for a ballot via the online voter registration system at www.hawaii.gov/elections.

Voters residing inside the security checkpoints will be able to pick-up their absentee ballots on Friday, July 20, 2018 at the Hanalei Colony Resort, if they submit an absentee ballot application to the Elections Division by July 6, 2018.  This enhanced absentee ballot service will be provided for one (1) day only and is only available to voters who reside inside the security checkpoints.

Information on this enhanced absentee voting service will also be posted online on the following County of Kaua‘i sites.

·      County of Kaua‘i Home Page (https://www.kauai.gov/);

·      Council Services Division (https://www.kauai.gov/CountyClerk);

·      Election Divisions (https://www.kauai.gov/Elections); and

·      Emergency Management Agency (https://www.kauai.gov/KEMA).

The 2018 Primary Election is on Saturday, August 11, 2018.

Finally, the Elections Division wishes to thank the Hanalei Colony Resort and Hawai‘i National Guard for their assistance with this project, and for their on-going efforts in support of the residents of the flood impacted areas on the north shore.

For additional information, please contact the Office of the County Clerk, Elections Division at 241-4800.

Garden Island Editorial: "Legislative highlights for Kauai are many"

Legislative highlights for Kauai are many

By The Garden Island | Tuesday, May 29, 2018, 12:05 a.m.

Kauai is blessed to have a strong team of legislators representing it at the Legislature.

Senate President Ron Kouchi, and Rep. Dee Morikawa, Jimmy Tokioka and Nadine Nakamura are sharp, bright and dedicated to doing their best to see to it that Kauai is well served. This recently completed session, that is what happened.

While it may seem at times that not much is happening, not much is being done, it is, in fact, just the opposite. There is much going on at the Legislature. We don’t hear of every nuance that goes on but rest assured, there is no lack of effort on the part of our legislators. They have hearts for Kauai and its people. And they know what it takes to get a law considered and passed. It’s not as easy as you might believe. Experience is huge at the Legislature, just as are hard work, smarts and abilities to work well with others, gaining both their support and confidence.

How do we know this?

The House of Representatives recently adjourned their 2018 session and passed many important bills on flood relief, emergency services and pesticide control that will directly benefit the people of Kauai.

The House also passed more than $85.3 million in Capital Improvement Project funding for Fiscal Year 2019 for projects across Kauai County.

Notable CIP funding highlights for Kauai County include:

• $200,000 for renovations of locker rooms at Kauai High School

• $500,000 for renovations of the library at Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School

• $2.5 million for a new library at Kapaa Elementary School

• $500,000 for the Agricultural Learning Center at Kapaa High School

• $110,000 for air conditioning and photovoltaic panels at Waimea Canyon Middle School

• $500,000 for renovations of the library at Waimea High School

• $2 million for a new gymnasium at Waimea High School

• $250,000 for parking area improvements at Wilcox Elementary School.

• $500,000 for a food service facility at Kauai Economic Opportunity Inc.

• $500,000 for a photovoltaic system at the Kauai Philippine Cultural Center

• $1 million for clearing the Waimea River mouth

• $2 million for site improvements at Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor

• $17.2 million for a ticket lobby and additional parking facilities for Lihue Airport.

• $2.5 million for guardrail and shoulder improvements on state highways

• $7 million for the repair of Hanalei Bridge on Kuhio Highway

• $36.6 million for repairs along Kuhio Highway

• $2.6 million for Traffic Operational Improvements to existing highways

Kauai lawmakers were able to secure $35,000 in Operating Grants-In-Aid projects for Kauai nonprofit organizations. These grants are provided to local organizations serving the public and working to improve the state of Hawaii.

Some of the important bills that will benefit Kauai Island residents this session include:

• Emergency services HB1900 HD1 SD1 CD1

The state budget includes $4.5 million for three new ambulances and staff on Kauai, Hawaii Island and Oahu.

• Disaster Relief, SB 192 SD1 HD1 CD1

Provides $100,000,000 to Kauai and $25,000,000 to other areas statewide for flood relief.

Provides immediate money to cover the upfront costs of needed road repairs, clearing rock slides and infrastructure improvements.

• Voting by mail, HB 1401 HD1 SD1 CD1

Pilot program for the 2020 primary and general election on Kauai conducted by mail.

Office of Elections to submit a report to the Legislature.

• Rose Ringed Parakeet, HB2081 HD1 SD2 CD1

Conducts field studies to reduce the rose-ringed parakeet population

• Pesticides, SB 3095 SD1 HD1

Prohibits the application of restricted use pesticides within 100 feet of a school during school hours.

Prohibits the use of pesticides containing chlorpyrifos as an active ingredient beginning Jan. 1, 2019. Allows exemptions.

• Homeless, SB 2401 SD2 HD1 CD1; SB 2027 SD2 HD1 CD1

$30 million for Ohana Zones on three Oahu sites, and one each on Kauai, Maui and Hawaii Island. Public lands will be selected by the Governor for the zones.

$1 million for an Emergency Department Assessment pilot program.

$1 million for a Medical Respite Pilot Program.

$800,000 for a new Family Assessment Center.

$400,000 for two new Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) programs on Maui and Hawaii Island.

1.5 million for a Coordinated Statewide Homeless Initiative.

• Cesspools, SB2567 SD2 HD2 CD1

Establishes a Cesspool Working Group to develop a comprehensive plan for the conversion of all statewide cesspools by 2050.

• Lifeguard Services, HB2097 HD1 SD2 CD1

Requires Attorney General to defend any civil action against the county to provide lifeguard services at a designated state beach park.

Appropriates funds to the Department of Land and Natural Resources to contract with the counties for county lifeguard services at designated state beach parks under an agreement between the state and a county.

• Restraining Orders, B1614 HD1 SD1 CD1

For parties filing for annulment, divorce, or separation, preserves the financial assets of the parties and maintains the current island of residence and school of enrollment of a minor child of the parties.

Despite this lengthly list, does that mean they got everything they wanted? No. But it wasn’t for lack of trying. Our legislators vow to continue to press for more education funding, including to improve pay for teachers and entice the best into this critical field.

In case you were wondering, Morikawa represents Niihau, Lehua, Koloa, Waimea. Nakamura presents Hanalei, Princeville, Kilauea, Anahola, Kapaa, Wailua. Tokioka represents Wailua Homesteads, Hanamaulu, Lihue, Puhi, Old Koloa Town, Omao.

Our legislators don’t get a lot of thanks and appreciation, but they deserve it.

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