Bridges No. 3 and 3A on Farrington Highway, built in 1937, were structurally deficient, requiring costly biennial repairs to maintain access for 400 residents with no detour available. In 2020, Hawaii Department of Transportation proposed replacing them with concrete bridges, but residents opposed the plan, fearing it would hinder future highway realignment. As a compromise, the Hawaii DOT opted for prefabricated steel bridges in 2021, preserving access to homes, parks, and a Space Force facility while addressing community concerns. The $16 million Makaha Bridge replacement project, partly funded by $6.4 million in Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act funds, emphasized public input and communication. With no room for bypass routes, Hawaii DOT removed and installed the bridges over two full weekend closures, coordinating with emergency services to ensure continued access.
America's Transportation Awards 