MEDIA RELEASE
In a joint effort, the county Department of Public Works and Department of Parks and Recreation will perform extensive tree-care and maintenance work along Hilo’s Banyan Drive starting Monday, Aug. 6.
County crews will clean, thin out and raise select banyan trees’ canopies to complement and enhance the safety of motorists and pedestrians.
Brief traffic delays may occur, and some on-street parking will be unavailable to ensure efficient working conditions and protect private property. Alternating sidewalk sections also will be closed, although every effort will be made to provide pedestrians with a safe route through the construction areas.
Updated roadway conditions will appear on electronic message boards posted at each end of Banyan Drive. Traffic safety signs, cones and flaggers will be positioned to aid motorists.
Work will occur primarily on weekdays, excluding holidays and furlough days, from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m. Depending on weather conditions, the maintenance project is expected to last six to eight weeks.
County crews will attempt to expedite the work to reduce any inconveniences to the public, property owners or residents. However, they may have to leave the project to respond to any natural disasters, flooded roadways, tree hazards or other unexpected emergencies that occur during the work phase.
Once the tree work is completed, the Department of Public Works’ Traffic Division will replace street signs and perform maintenance work to the streetlights along Banyan Drive.
The Department of Public Works and Department of Parks and Recreation thank the public for its patience and understanding while this important and extensive maintenance project is conducted.