Portion of Kūhiō Highway to reduce speed limit in Kīlauea

Starting Oct. 25, the speed limit on Kūhiō Highway between the intersections of Pili and Kalihiwai Roads in Kīlauea will drop to 35 mph.

Previously, the speed limit in the area varied from 50 mph to 40 mph depending on direction of travel. According to Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation, the reduced speed limit will be for both directions.

The speed limit is being lowered to improve safety, HDOT stated in a press release this afternoon, adding the lower speed increases reaction time for drivers and other users and improves survivability if a crash does occur.

“A consistent and manageable speed supports operations at the four unsignalized intersections, two bus stops, one uncontrolled crosswalk, and community park access in this 1.2-mile section of Kūhiō Highway,” the release stated.

HDOT has been actively managing speed in areas where high rates of vehicles, pedestrians and bicyclists are anticipated.

“By normalizing safe speed limits, right sizing corridors, and upgrading infrastructure with features that guide the user to appropriate speeds such as roundabouts and raised pedestrian crosswalks, we can reduce serious traffic injuries and fatalities while ensuring an efficient system,” the release stated.