The Hanalei Bridge, a historic and essential link to Kauai’s north shore, is undergoing significant repairs. The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) recently announced that the necessary ongoing repairs would result in full closures every night between Hanalei Plantation Road and Ohiki Road. This closure, starting on June 27, 2023, will last from 11 pm to 5:30 am every Sunday through Thursday nights, with no precise end date.
The Importance of Hanalei Bridge Repairs
The Hanalei Bridge repairs are crucial to ensure its continued use. The work includes deck refurbishment, repairs to bridge trusses and stringers, replacement of post-tension rods, and painting to protect the structure from erosion. The state anticipates that this work will continue for the next six months or perhaps longer, as the duration is partly weather-dependent and work of this nature progresses slowly on Kauai.
The Impact on Kauai’s North Shore
These repairs come after five years of intermittent but ongoing troubles associated with travel to Kauai’s north shore. The state is continuing with plans that impact the normally sleepy Hanalei, Kauai. However, in the long run, things are looking good for visitors seeking to enjoy the north shore’s epic beauty.
The Challenges of Hanalei Bridge Closures
The one-lane bridge, built in 1912 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has seen its share of challenges. Any problem can result in very long delays, as was the case with a recent multi-hour delay due to a dangling power line over the road. The line of cars extended from the bridge all the way through Hanalei town.
The Future of Hanalei Bridge
The Hanalei Bridge repairs are necessary to correct both damage and corrosion. The state acknowledged that it hadn’t done a good job of maintaining its bridges and missed the funding deadline for the project. Both current projects are expected to take over two years to complete.
In addition to the bridge repairs, work on the Hanalei hill area, the site of the previous massive landslide, isn’t complete. Another major project is required to complete slope stabilization and an anchored mesh system. Another stabilization project along the highway near the Hanalei river will address erosion that last year led to a guardrail failure.
The Hanalei Bridge repairs and associated road work will undoubtedly cause some inconvenience, but they are necessary steps to ensure the safety and longevity of this historic structure. As these projects progress, patience and understanding will be key for both residents and visitors alike.
Scott Sweeney is the creator of Virtual Hawaii 360. Scott is a professional marketer and a lifelong Hawaii enthusiast. Scott splits time between Oahu and Dayton, Ohio. In addition to his marketing endevours, he is also a published Ukulele musician.