Nearly three years after construction began, the Hawaii Department of Transportation announced Thursday the opening of the Ala Moana Boulevard Pedestrian Bridge that spans six traffic lanes and is located between Ward Avenue and Kamakee Street.
The $17.8 million project was funded at an 80-20 cost share through the U.S. DOT’s Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development transportation discretionary grant program and State Highway Funds. Victoria Ward Limited took part in the state cost share by donating land and paying for the bridge design and environmental documentation, according to HDOT.
“The Federal Highway Administration is pleased to celebrate the opening of the new Ala Moana elevated walkway that separates pedestrians from traffic and improves safety for everyone,” said Gloria M. Shepherd, Executive Director of the Federal Highway Administration, in a release.
“Safety is our top priority at the U.S. Department of Transportation. FHWA is fully committed to working with our partners to ensure that every federal resource available is used towards improving safety on our nation’s transportation system,” Shepherd said.
HDOT Director Ed Sniffen said, “The Ala Moana Pedestrian Bridge has been eagerly anticipated by many. Our partners in this project have done a fantastic job of building a walkway that will not only serve as a pedestrian and bike safety measure but as an aesthetic addition to the corridor.”
Doug Johnstone, president of the Hawaii region for Howard Hughes, said the new walkway is a “meaningful step forward,” because connecting community lies at the heart of Ward Village. “Our collaboration with the state DOT and the Federal Highway Administration has helped create a welcoming, safe link between Ward Village and Ala Moana, expanding access to public parks and improving the pedestrian experience. We’re excited to continue building on this momentum with the upcoming expansion of Victoria Ward Park next year.”
