University of Hawaii at Hilo is postponing plans to build a pedestrian bridge over Kawili Street because of budget constraints, a spokesman said. ADVERTISING University of Hawaii at Hilo is postponing plans to build a pedestrian bridge over Kawili Street
University of Hawaii at Hilo is postponing plans to build a pedestrian bridge over Kawili Street because of budget constraints, a spokesman said.
Jerry Chang, university relations director, said the estimated $6 million project is being “deferred indefinitely” while UH-Hilo focuses on higher priority projects, such as repairs to its air-conditioning system.
He said there is no timeline for building the overpass. A draft environmental assessment said the bridge would take 16 months to complete.
According to the document, the 536-foot-long covered span would extend from the Hale Alahonua dorms to the Campus Center, allowing students to walk to class out of the rain and above traffic.
The dorm houses 300 students and was completed in 2013.
The report says hundreds of students cross the street hourly on their way to the main campus.
That’s expected to increase once UH finishes Phase II of its “university village” project that will include commercial buildings and communal areas for students adjacent to the dormitory.
The bridge’s plans include Wi-Fi, vending machines, seating and a drinking fountain.
According to the report, the bridge will be an “architectural landmark defining a gateway to the campus.”
The design includes winding paths with landscaped plazas featuring native trees and ferns.
Email Tom Callis at tcallis@hawaiitribune-herald.com.
