Situation
For this project, GBI worked with the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT) to build a new interchange along Interstate H-1 that continues to expand and modify freeway access on Oahu’s growing west side. The project is located in Kapolei and spans the area between Farrington Highway, the H-1 Freeway, and Harbor Access Road. Phase III includes constructing a new interchange and permanently removing the existing off-ramp Exit 1A to Kalaeloa Boulevard due to the close proximity of the new interchange.
Solution
GBI completed the demolition and reconstruction of the existing pavement and installed new roadway drainage and utility infrastructure. The scope also included the construction of retaining walls and a box culvert, relocation and installation of new highway lighting and electrical lines, and placement of new asphalt and concrete pavement with updated signage/pavement markings. Altogether, GBI poured over 5,200 cubic yards of PCCP, constructed 7,300 cubic yards of retaining walls, and installed 210 linear feet of box culvert. GBI also placed 600 tons of AC pavement, installed over 6,000 linear feet of new utility lines, completed 26,000 square yards of site grading, and imported over 70,000 cubic yards of coral fill material. The off-ramp portion of the interchange is scheduled to open in early 2026.
Notable
The GBI project team successfully navigated a series of challenges that included working near live traffic under strict lane closure restrictions, constructing the retaining walls and roadway with limited site access, and many unforeseen site conditions. The project team also managed design issues related to the inadequate overhead clearance of HECO’s 138 kV high-voltage transmission lines.
