Papakōlea, Hawai’i Island – Hawaiian Telcom will begin a major telecommunications network upgrade in Papakōlea starting April 14th, 2024. The project, slated to continue through April 30th, 2025, aims to improve the company’s infrastructure and provide enhanced services to the area.

Work will be conducted Monday through Friday, between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., excluding holidays. Residents can expect to see Hawaiian Telcom trucks parked near utility boxes for several hours at a time as workers install fiber optic cables.

The impacted areas include the following blocks: 2200 Kapahu St, 2300 Kapahu St, 2000 Haʻalelea Pl, 2200 Anianikū St, 2000 Kamalalehua Pl and 2000 Pūowaina Dr.

Hawaiian Telcom is advising motorists to exercise caution and obey all traffic controls and posted signs while driving through the work zones. Coordination will be in place for local traffic, including residents, deliveries, trash collection, and emergency services.

A key impact for residents will be the prohibition of on-street parking within the construction areas during working hours. Residents are urged to carefully observe the dates and times posted on roadway signs to avoid being towed. Illegally parked vehicles will be towed at the owner’s expense.

“We understand that construction can be disruptive, and we appreciate the community’s patience as we work to upgrade the telecommunications infrastructure in Papakōlea,” said Scott Lee, the contact person for Hawaiian Telcom on this project.

Residents with questions or concerns can contact Scott Lee at 808-371-7650. Hawaiian Telcom is committed to minimizing disruption and ensuring the safety of the community throughout the duration of the project.