The Hawaii Department of Transportation says crews are currently working on installing a mesh system “to stabilize the slope” between the Pali Tunnels and to repair the damaged electrical building between the tunnels.

A contractor is also installing an attenuator system between Old Pali Road and the highway.

Pali Tunnel Landslide Townbound lane2.
Construction work at the Pali earlier this year. Cory Lum/Civil Beat

The downtown-to-Windward Oahu artery was closed in February following landslides at the tunnel area.

Traffic access is limited to Monday through Friday Honolulu-bound contraflow between 5-9 a.m., and to Kailua/Kaneohe bound lanes between 3-7 p.m.

The estimated cost of the attenuator, tunnel rockfall mitigation system and emergency work to date is $20 million.

The DOT has requested Federal Highway Administration Emergency Relief

The work is not expected to be completed until late August.

Help power essential news and information

As a local newsroom, Civil Beat has a unique public service role in times of need. Your support ensures that we can pivot when emergencies arise and get vital information out to everyone, from all communities.

Support timely and accurate breaking news stories as well as impactful coverage across the state. Donate today.

About the Author