MEDIA RELEASE 8/26/10 11:45 a.m.

AVOID Route 180 (Mamalahoa Highway) between the 6- and 7-mile markers due to a downed utility pole.

A downed utility pole 50 yards south of Keopu Mauka Road in North Kona has closed Route 180 in both directions for about an hour (until 12:30 p.m.)

HELCO crews are at the scene.

Motorists should use Kuakini Highway until Route 180 is reopened.

UPDATED MEDIA RELEASE 8/26/10 2:39 p.m.

Hawaii County police report that Route 180 (Mamalahoa Highway) is open for two-way traffic in Holualoa. The roadway was closed between the 6 and 7 mile markers due to a downed power line.