Hanapēpē Bridge to remain closed until early 2026 with another project delay

The Hanapēpē Bridge, which has been closed since July 2024, will now not reopen until at least early 2026 due to another delay in the repair project, according to the Kauaʻi County Department of Public Works.

The department, in collaboration with contractor Kiewit Infrastructure West Co., said in a press release on Friday that the bridge project has encountered setbacks in constructing the waterline and that more federal funding also is required to complete the unexpected repair work.

The project originally was announced by Kauaʻi County in July 2024, with an April 2025 finish date and $3 million price tag. The work at that time included: replacing the pedestrian walkway, spalled concrete repairs to the bridge abutments, piers and deck; reinforcement and thickening of the bridge deck; and putting an overlay with a new asphalt surface.

The bridge’s historical appearance would remain the same, the county said.

In April, the county announced the completion of the bridge work would be delayed until July 31.

The Hanapēpē Bridge on Hanapēpē Road has been closed since July 2024 and will remain closed until the completion of the project.

County officials expect construction on the bridge to resume in October. Crews will be operating 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on weekdays.

Motorists are advised to plan ahead by using alternate routes, following posted detours, and allowing extra travel time. Drivers should stay alert and exercise caution in the area, particularly during construction hours.

For further information or specific concerns, the public can contact Greg Uyematsu or Gibson Scott at Kiewit Infrastructure West Co. by calling 808-674-1088. Or Aidan Smith or Nick Jefferies with the County of Kaua‘i Engineering Division at  808-241-4883.