Blessing held for the Po‘ipū Road Safety and Mobility Project
KŌLOA – The County of Kaua‘i held a blessing ceremony in Kōloa on Tuesday, October 14, to mark the start of the Poʻipū Road Safety and Mobility Project, a major infrastructure effort aimed at improving safety and accessibility along one of South Kaua‘i’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 Po‘ipū Road, connecting Kōloa Elementary School to many residences including Koa‘e Makana Affordable Housing, and connecting resorts in Po‘ipū to restaurants and other businesses. Continuous bike lanes will run the full length of Poʻipū 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, kūpuna, and visitors alike.”
The project originated from a community visioning process in 2013 and was incorporated into the South Kaua‘i 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 Hawai‘i Department of Transportation, and our many local partners who helped make this milestone possible.”
The Poʻipū Road Safety and Mobility Project will also complement nearby improvements, including Kōloa Bridge repairs and resurfacing of Kōloa Road in Kōloa Town, both completed this year, and other South Kaua‘i pedestrian safety upgrades planned in the coming years.
The Poʻipū Road Safety and Mobility Project represents one of the largest transportation investments ever made in South Kaua‘i, 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, please contact the Public Works Engineering Division at 808-241-4883 or pwengineering@kauai.gov.
County officials and contractors break ground on the Po‘ipū Road Safety and Mobility Project.
Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami addresses the attendees at the blessing.
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