Construction initiates on a 4.5-mile stretch of Pohoiki Road for restoration.
The Hawaii County Department of Public Works (DPW) has taken the first steps in the restoration of Pohoiki Road, which was flooded by lava in 2018. The contractor for the project is Nan Inc., with David Yamashita serving as the project leader.
Heavy equipment is being brought in to start the restoration work at the intersection of Pahoa-Kapoho Road and Pohoiki Road. The combined cost of the Pohoiki Road and Highway 137 restoration projects is approximately $50 million, with 75% covered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The county uses recovery funds from the state to cover the 25% local match for these projects.
The restoration of Highway 137 is also part of the infrastructure rebuilding in lower Puna following the 2018 Kilauea eruption. Isemoto Contracting is currently grading work along a 3.6-mile-long segment of Highway 137. The project aims to restore 4.5 miles of roadway and waterlines, and it is expected to reconnect communities and restore water service to Isaac Hale Beach Park.
The restoration of Highway 137 is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2026, while the Pohoiki Road restoration project is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2027.
To keep the community informed about the progress of these projects, DPW will resume monthly community meetings via Zoom every third Friday at 12 p.m., starting Sept. 19. These meetings will provide progress reports and allow the community to ask questions about the projects. Meeting details, including participation links, can be found at https://tinyurl.com/53e3hr6a.
The restoration of Highway 137 is not just about rebuilding infrastructure; it's about returning vital services to the community. The project will not only reconnect communities but will also return water service to Isaac Kepo'okalani Hale Beach Park.
The restoration of Pohoiki Road and Highway 137 is a significant step in the recovery and rebuilding of lower Puna following the 2018 Kilauea eruption. The projects are moving forward, and the community is encouraged to stay informed and engaged.
