The start of oral arguments for the Queen Kaahumanu Highway Phase II widening bid appeal has been delayed yet again. It has been rescheduled from January 15, 2010 until February 24th, 2010. The re-assignment of the appeal to a new judge is probably biggest reason for this latest delay. Judge Hifo’s sudden retirement was the reason for the previous delay from December 11, 2009 to January 15th, 2010.
It is likely the new RFP solicitation will be completed before this appeal is adjudicated. The HDOT will award the latter RFP by March 9th, 2010.
The Keokeo/Holu Street roadway connection should be opened by the first business day after January 9th, 2010. I’ve checked Ho’ohiki regarding this case. Judge Ibarra issued the final order of condemnation on December 29th, 2009. In addition, Ho’ohiki shows that the case has been terminated as of the latter date.
The HDOT’s contractor is still waiting for the signal loops to arrive for the Malulani Gardens traffic signal. This is why this traffic signal has not been activated yet.
Lastly, Makalei Estates is turning into a gated subdivision. I wonder if it is legal to do this. Makalei Estates has been existence since 2002. Why is the HOA doing this now? I suspect this is the homeowners association attempt to prevent Palamanui from using Makalei Drive as a way to connect to Mamalahoa Highway.
January 1st, 2010 at 6:53 PM
the excuse about loop detectors is an old one and not valid. i went on line and found about a dozen diferrent sources with most product in stock and available or immeddiate delivery in small quantities. someone need to call their bluff and ask the hard questions. people build signals all overthe world without waiting years for the parts…i call bs on this one.
one more thought on the subject…those cones/barrier that are in the road there are really not doing anything and they have become a hazard to drivers. they are shifted around from the original locations and they block the road…it looks like an abandoned road project…..some pr by the county is needed on this fiasco.
January 1st, 2010 at 9:51 PM
I agree with your frustration. This is why I asked my HDOT contact to look into this further. In addition, I’ll be trying my best to get the HDOT to complete this in the near future.
January 2nd, 2010 at 2:20 PM
Amazing what the governor has brung us, including poor congested Kona. Thank goodness, the she can’t mess up the Saddle!