The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) anticipates reopening the Wailua River Bridge in time for the morning commute on Monday, April 15th, 2024. HDOT closed the bridge early Friday, April 12th for safety reasons, after a drill rig had fallen onto the railing and storm debris accumulated under the bridge after torrential rains.
The drill rig was being used for Wailua River Bridge Repairs and the contractor is working to remove the fallen rig. Another contractor is currently working to remove the storm debris and will continue working 24/7 throughout the weekend. The bridge has been inspected and the drilling rig has not compromised its structural integrity.
HDOT reports the southbound bridge will remain closed throughout the weekend. Two-way traffic will continue to be routed on the northbound (makai) bridge. After the bridge reopens Monday morning, additional nightly closures for debris removal are planned from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. Monday, April 15th through Thursday, April 19th with the final closure of the week ending at 5 a.m. Friday, April 20th.
The traffic issues at the bridge are adding at least an hour or more to commutes across the bridge, according to reports. Individuals with flights or other time-related events are advised to keep these delays in mind when planning travel through the area.