PUBLIC INFORMATION BULLETIN NO. 2 SEPTEMBER 2004 ALA WAI BOULEVARD IMPROVEMENTS (JOB NO. 34-03)

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INTRODUCTION

This bulletin is intended to keep the community informed about construction of the Ala Wai Blvd. Improvements project. It will be published every 2 months on behalf of the City & County of Honolulu Department of Design & Construction, by the construction management engineering consultant M&E Pacific, Inc.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The project will extend along the Ala Wai Blvd from Ainakea Way on the Diamond Head (East) end to McCully St. on the Ewa (West) end.

Along the mauka (north) side of Ala Wai Blvd, the existing curb will be moved outward about eight (8) feet into the parking lane for about 100 linear feet at each intersection to create “bulbout” islands. These “bulbout” areas will be landscaped with grass and trees to create increased green space along the canal. Benches and receptacles will also be installed. Parking (24 Hr) will still be provided between the “bulbouts”.

Along the makai (south) side of Ala Wai Blvd, new upgraded ADA compliant wheel chair ramps, striping, and crosswalk push buttons will be constructed at six intersections including: Paoakalani Ave., Liliuokalani Ave., Kanekapolei St., Seaside Ave., Lewers St., and Kalaimoku St. .

 PROJECT STATUS AND SCHEDULE: 

The project started in August 2004 and overall is approximately 45% completed. The forecast total completion is in early December 2004.

Work began at the Kapahulu end of Ala Wai Blvd and is proceeding toward McCully St.. The concrete curbing for all 20 “bulb out” islands has been completed. Irrigation, grassing, and bench pads are completed up to Nahua St.. Coco palm trees are planted in the bulb out islands up to Liliuokalani Ave.. 

Upcoming work zones and forecast schedules are presented on the backside map.  

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

1, What type of activity will I see?
The Contractor will typically be using a backhoe, air compressor, and pavement breakers to demolish the existing curb, sidewalks, and pavements.

a)      At signalized intersections, new underground ducts/wires and pedestrian signals will be installed. 

b)      Carpenters will form the new curbs and sidewalks and pour delivered concrete.

c)      Landscapers will spread topsoil, plant trees, install irrigation, and lay sod grass.

d)      New crosswalks and travel lane pavement markings painted and signage installed.

2. Will there be a lot of dust?
Some fugitive dust may occur. Water will be sprayed to suppress dust and wash work areas.

3. How will vehicle / pedestrian traffic and parking be affected?
Intermittent lane closures will be required at work areas for offloading. Traffic control signage will be erected and special duty police will be present. Notices to Motorists has been published and an electronic message board is set up near the Waikiki Library to advise the motoring public.  Work is performed during daytime only.

The existing canal walk on the mauka (north) side of the Ala Wai Blvd. is being kept open. Temporary crosswalk and sidewalk closures will occur during construction of the wheelchair ramps on both the mauka (north) and makai (south) side of the Ala Wai Blvd..

During work on each increment to construct the bulb outs along the mauka (north) side of the Ala Wai Blvd., parking will be prohibited in the work zone on a 24 Hr basis.

4. How noisy will the work be?
The loudest noise will be from pavement breaking which will be done during daytime only. A Dept. of Health community noise permit has been issued for daytime work only.

FURTHER PUBLIC INFORMATION:

+ Inspector Information Phone 808-341-6411
+ Electronic Message Board at Kapahulu End of Ala Wai Blvd.
+ Radio Traffic Reports