County Council discusses Mamalahoa Bypass

July 8, 2009 - Hilo, Hawaii
Video by David Corrigan

The Hawaii County Committee on Public Works and Intergovernmental Relations approved a report submitted by the Department of Public Works on use of the Mamalahoa Bypass in Kona. The road will continue to be open for southbound residents during the afternoon rush hour.

Traffic Division Head Ron Thiel said data taken during the first 60 days of the 180 day trial was on target with DPW projections, and although the use of the road has thus far been a success, costs and community concern will keep the road from expanding its hours of public availability.

South Kona councilwoman Brenda Ford, who has generally been satisfied with the bypass that exists entirely in her district, also questioned corporation counsel about the future of the second phase of the bypass, which is still mired in litigation.