It’s always inspiring when our industry completes projects that earn Hawai‘i national recognition, even if it takes a while.

In this case, it’s our infrastructure. The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation recently received its first-ever Perpetual Pavement Award on Kaua‘i.

Roads that are at least 35 years old, have never experienced a structural failure and have an average interval between resurfacing of no less than 13 years are eligible for the award presented by the Asphalt Pavement Alliance, with engineers at the National Center for Asphalt Technology helping select the winners.

Also known as Waimea Canyon Drive or Kokee Road, Route 550 is one of the most scenic drives in the state, offering breathtaking views of Waimea Canyon and ending at Kōke‘e State Park. The roadway was honored for a two-mile section from Mile Post 6.72 to MP 8.72, which is a two-lane road that averages 740 vehicles daily.

“This honor underscores the state’s commitment to constructing long-lasting, sustainable asphalt pavements that serve and connect the community,” Asphalt Pavement Alliance Executive Director Reed Ryan said in a statement. “Hawai‘i’s long-standing dedication to excellence in pavement design and construction sets a commendable example for others to follow.”

A commemorative obelisk and plaque were presented by the Hawaii Asphalt Paving Industry on behalf of the APA during a ceremony in October, with HDOT Highway Administrator Larry Dill — whose office is in the department’s Kaua‘i District — in attendance.

“We are especially honored to be the first recipient of a PPA in Hawai‘i,” Dill said.

Jason Genegabus
Senior Editor, Building Industry Hawai‘i