The intersection of Bayfront Highway, Kamehameha Avenue and Waianuenue Avenue in Hilo is set for a $22 million redesign that includes a roundabout, with construction expected to begin in 2027.
The project — which will be built on 5.27 acres of state and county land — will create a single-lane roundabout aimed at reducing traffic congestion and improving safety for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists.
According to the Hawaii Department of Transportation, the roundabout will help alleviate consistent congestion at the busy intersection, which often worsens when Bayfront Highway is closed due to flooding or high surf.
The redesign also will include pedestrian and bicycle facilities, which are currently lacking at the intersection.
These improvements are expected to enhance access to nearby public areas such as Kaipalaoa Landing Park, Russell Carroll Mooheau County Park, Bayfront Soccer Fields, Bayfront Beach Park and the Wailoa River State Recreation Area.
Despite the potential benefits, local officials have raised concerns about how the roundabout will impact traffic flow, particularly for trucks and trailers using the Bayfront Highway.
“I have heard about the state of Hawaii looking into creating a roundabout at the intersection of Waianuenue and Kamehameha. I cannot picture how this will help with the traffic entering Hilo and exiting out of Hilo,” Councilman Dennis Onishi of Hilo told the Tribune-Herald. “What will happen with all the trucks and trailers using the Bayfront Highway? Also, how will this affect the Kaipalaoa Landing Park with public use?”
Councilwoman Jenn Kagiwada of Hilo also voiced her perspective on the project, emphasizing the need for thoughtful planning.
“In general, well-designed and executed roundabouts can help ease traffic, reduce vehicular speed and create steady flow,” Kagiwada told the Tribune-Herald. “However, our island has seen poorly designed roundabouts in the past, and some residents have expressed concerns.
“I hope the state will employ up-to-date best design and implementation procedures, including safe walking and biking opportunities for this important traffic artery in Hilo.”
The project also will attempt to address stormwater drainage concerns in the area, which has experienced frequent flooding. In addition to the roundabout, plans include improvements such as reconfigured parking, new highway lighting, ADA-compliant sidewalks, pedestrian signals and the relocation of electrical infrastructure.
Funding for the project comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Fiscal Year 2024 Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity Discretionary Grant Program, which supports surface transportation projects aimed at improving safety, sustainability and community connectivity.
The DOT said the project is slated for completion in March 2029.
Email Daniel Farr at dfarr@hawaiitribune-herald.com.