David Y. Ige

HONOLULU – The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) Highways Division advises the public that work on the Kamehameha Highway Repair and Repaint Karsten Thot Bridge project will start Monday, Aug. 3, 2015.  This project will prolong the life expectancy of Karsten Thot Bridge while improving vehicular, bicyclist, and pedestrian safety.

The steel truss bridge was last repaired in 2012 to address environmental and age-related damage.  The upcoming project will include corroded structural steel repairs, walkway and guard railing improvements, and repainting to provide corrosion protection for the entire bridge.

“These necessary repairs will extend the longevity of Karsten Thot Bridge and therefore enhance public safety while maintaining the bridge’s historical aesthetic,” said HDOT Director Ford Fuchigami.  “Maintaining our state’s bridges is a priority, and this project will greatly benefit motorists entering or exiting the Wahiawa area.”

The $7.9 million project is funded with 80 percent federal and 20 percent state funds.  It is anticipated to be complete by April of 2016, weather permitting.

Roadwork will be comprised of day work from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. requiring no lane closures.  Night work may consist of either single lane closures from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. or full closures of the bridge from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m. During work hours, the height clearance for the bridge will be lowered from 14 feet 4 inches to 12 feet until approximately the end of the year.

For more information, please visit the project website at www.rrkarstenthot.com or call the project hotline at (808) 518-4576.  Lane closure information will also be available on the HDOT website at hidot.hawaii.gov and released through our social media channels on Facebook and Twitter.

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