Blessing held for the Poipu Road Safety and Mobility Project

The County of Kauai held a blessing ceremony in Koloa on Tuesday to mark the start of the Poipu Road Safety and Mobility Project, a major infrastructure effort aimed at improving safety and accessibility along one of South Kauai’s busiest corridors.

Key features of the project include three new roundabouts, continuous bicycle lanes, new sidewalks, crosswalks, bus stops with shelters, and turn-only lanes to enhance safety and mobility for all roadway users.

Sidewalks will be continuous on at least one side of the full length of Poipu Road, connecting Koloa Elementary School to many residences including Koae Makana Affordable Housing, and connecting resorts in Poipu to restaurants and other businesses. Continuous bike lanes will run the full length of Poipu Road, with the exception of the Hyatt frontage.

“Today marks an important step toward bringing to life a vision that began more than a decade ago,” said Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami. “This project is about creating a safer, more connected community for families, keiki, kupuna and visitors alike.”

The project originated from a community visioning process in 2013 and was incorporated into the South Kauai Community Plan in 2015. Construction is scheduled for completion by December 2027.

“This project stands as an example of what can be achieved when federal, state and county partners come together with the community,” said County Engineer Troy Tanigawa. “We are grateful for the continued support of the Federal Highway Administration, the Hawaii Department of Transportation, and our many local partners who helped make this milestone possible.”

The Poipu Road Safety and Mobility Project will also complement nearby improvements, including Koloa Bridge repairs and resurfacing of Koloa Road in Koloa Town, both completed this year, and other South Kauai pedestrian safety upgrades planned in the coming years.

The Poipu Road Safety and Mobility Project represents one of the largest transportation investments ever made in South Kauai, totaling more than $70 million. Funding includes a $25 million Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) Grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation, $33 million in additional federal funds primarily through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, $13 million in county funds, and $2 million from utility partners.

For more information or questions, contact the Public Works Engineering Division at 808-241-4883 or pwengineering@kauai.gov.
Source: The Garden Island