W.H. Shipman wants to add traffic lights on Highway 11 to aid motorists driving into its business park, and is seeking a $2.75 million appropriation to get the project done.
W.H. Shipman wants to add traffic lights on Highway 11 to aid motorists driving into its business park, and is seeking a $2.75 million appropriation to get the project done.
Bill Walter, Shipman president, said lights on both north and southbound lanes would help drivers who need to cross multiple lanes of traffic when entering or exiting the highway.
“We probably have over 1,000 people working there,” he said of the business park, located between Hilo and Keaau. “It will be a big help for those folks.”
Shipman is asking the state Legislature to approve the funds, which would be passed through the state Department of Transportation. The legislation — SB 3048 — passed the Senate Committee on Transportation and Energy on Feb. 4.
In its written testimony, the DOT said it supports the appropriation as long as it doesn’t impact its overall budget.
The agency said it would assist with technical support during design and construction phases.
Shipman would be responsible for permitting and contracting.
Walter said having the company help take the lead for the project will expedite the work.
He said it is hoped the traffic improvements can begin in a year of the funding being approved.
Email Tom Callis at tcallis@hawaiitribune-herald.com.