Traffic pattern shift set for Kapaʻa intersection will improve safety, traffic flow

Update at 1 p.m. Tuesday, July 29: The forthcoming reconfiguration of the intersection at Olohena Road and Kaʻāpuni Road is part of an ongoing effort to improve traffic safety and efficiency in the area.

According to the County of Kauaʻi Department of Public Works, this is not just a change in stop sign placement. The project includes physical modifications to the intersection’s geometry, involving the addition and removal of pavement to realign traffic flow and improve visibility.

These improvements are in response to long-standing concerns regarding the intersection’s unusual layout and limited sight distances. The changes were approved unanimously by a Kauaʻi County Council resolution in June.

The goal of the reconfiguration is to square up the intersection, add a dedicated left-turn lane, and create a traditional two-way stop control, resulting in safer and more predictable traffic operations.

A thorough analysis of traffic counts in the area confirms that this design offers not only the safest alternative but also one that will help ease congestion and improve overall traffic flow in the surrounding area.

Original story on Thursday, July 24: A new traffic pattern will begin at the intersection of Ōlohena Road, Kaʻāpuni Road, and Kaʻehulua Road next month.

The Department of Public Works and its contractor, Earthworks Pacific, will establish the traffic modifications in Kapaʻa beginning Aug. 4.

The traffic pattern modifications include:

• A new left-turn-only lane will be established on Ōlohena Road in the westbound direction for traffic continuing on Ōlohena Road.
• A stop sign will be established on the west leg of Ōlohena Road at its intersection with Kaʻāpuni Road and Kaʻehulua Road, as shown in Exhibit A.
• The existing stop sign on Kaʻāpuni Road at its entrance into Ōlohena Road will be removed.

Exercise caution and drive slowly when commuting through the work area and while motorists adjust to the new traffic pattern.

For more information, contact Joel Bautista at the County of Kauaʻi at 808-241-4883 or jbautista@kauai.gov.