Latest infrastructure & transportation news and updates
The transport of Lahaina wildfire debris to the Central Maui Landfill is scheduled to begin June 16th, which marks a key step in the recovery process. This project, involving extensive collaboration and resources, aims to clear the area and support the economic revitalization of the region.
The transport of Lahaina wildfire debris, starting June 16, will significantly affect traffic in West Maui. Businesses should plan ahead for delays and disruptions.
The County of Hawaiʻi will revert Aliʻi Drive in Kona back to a two-way street after a trial period of one-way traffic. This decision impacts traffic flow, parking availability, and the overall experience for visitors and residents.
The Honoapiʻilani Highway realignment project presents both challenges and opportunities for Hawaii's business community. The project's focus is on supporting the long-term viability of businesses in West Maui, with the selection of sites at Olowalu town, Mile Marker 14, and Ukumehame Beach Park for more detailed plans. The future of the coastal land, the existing roadway, and new development possibilities await.
The Honolulu City Council has approved HART's $968.3 million budget for fiscal year 2026, which will provide funding for the advancement of the Skyline project. The budget provides opportunities for local businesses and construction but could bring risks.
Hawaiian Electric is investing $350 million in a comprehensive wildfire safety strategy, with a strong emphasis on Maui County, including a pilot project for undergrounding power lines in Lahaina. This initiative aims to harden the grid, protect communities, and leverage advanced technology to prevent future tragedies.
Alaska Airlines’ mainland flight cancellations are creating ripple effects, posing challenges for Hawaii’s tourism sector and businesses reliant on air travel. The airline's fleet decisions and broader industry scrutiny will significantly shape Hawaii's economic landscape.
The Honolulu City Council is set to review Mayor Blangiardi's proposal for $11 million in general obligation bonds to support the over-budget rail project. This decision is a critical step in addressing the financial sustainability of the project and it impacts local businesses.
A new $46 million TSA Checkpoint project at Kahului Airport has broken ground, with the aim to reduce passenger wait times and improve travel experiences, benefiting local businesses and the tourism sector.
Kahului Airport on Maui is undergoing a $62 million upgrade, with a new passenger waiting area and other improvements, designed to enhance the experience for the millions of travelers passing through the airport annually, and to support the tourism economy.
Recent upgrades at Honolulu Airport, including a remodeled bathroom and a Panda Express, are drawing criticism as travelers point out persistent issues like outdated infrastructure and crowded gates. The focus on superficial improvements raises concerns about the efficiency of infrastructure investment and the potential impact on Hawaii's tourism-dependent businesses.
Upcoming closures on the H-1 Freeway will impact travel and logistics, urging businesses and residents in Hawaii to prepare for potential delays. Planning ahead, considering alternative routes, and staying updated with traffic information are key to minimizing disruptions.
Beginning in June, Central Maui anticipates significant traffic as crews transport approximately 400,000 tons of Lahaina wildfire debris to a permanent disposal site, creating both challenges and opportunities for the local business community.
Hawaiian Electric is utilizing drones for aerial inspections across several islands to enhance its wildfire safety strategy, improving infrastructure protection, and ensuring community safety. This initiative reflects a proactive move to adopt technology and mitigate wildfires.
The Honolulu Rail project is a cautionary tale for Hawaii's business sector, highlighting the importance of realistic expectations and careful oversight in large-scale infrastructure projects. The project's continuous delays, budget expansions, and impact on renewable energy targets will affect a variety of local industries, including real estate, tourism, and transportation.
A coalition on the Leeward Coast is urging utility companies to take immediate action to improve infrastructure, mitigate wildfire risks, and protect residents. This push comes in response to growing safety concerns and the need for long-term solutions.
The FAA's safety concerns regarding the aging Boeing 717 fleet, a staple of inter-island travel in Hawaii, could impact businesses, tourism, and the overall economy. Hawaiian Airlines is under pressure to find suitable aircraft replacements.
A HI-EMA fuel tank has been in violation of maintenance regulations since 1997, raising concerns about infrastructure safety and potential impacts on Hawaii businesses. This situation necessitates careful consideration from investors and highlights the importance of effective oversight.
Hawaiian Electric is utilizing drones for aerial inspections of its electrical infrastructure, particularly in wildfire-prone areas. This proactive approach enhances the grid's safety, reliability, and reduces disruptions for businesses and residents.
The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) is expanding its use of automated safety cameras across the islands to detect speeders and red-light runners, aiming to improve traffic safety despite facing legislative hurdles. This move, which involves installing 160 additional cameras, has implications for businesses, particularly the rental car industry and those dependent on transportation.