KAILUA-KONA, Hawaii (KHON2) — Forty-six free parking stalls will be added to Aliʻi Drive in Kona by converting the road into a one-way street between Kailua Pier and Hualālai Road on May 1.
The project will serve as a trial for up to 90 days, which would become permanent if successful and approved by the Hawaiʻi County Council.
“This pilot project grew out of community concerns over the lack of affordable parking in Kailua Village,” County of Hawaiʻi Mayor Kimo Alameda said. “By providing free parking along Aliʻi Drive, we can create a more vibrant and accessible community for our residents and businesses. Throughout the project, we will be assessing the success of the new traffic pattern, and we appreciate the community’s patience during this trial period.”
New signs will be added to inform drivers of the changes to the street’s infrastructure.
The Department of Public Works will be monitoring traffic to make adjustments as necessary and ensure the flow of traffic.
“Our road crews will be watching the lights so that we can make any necessary adjustments,” said Neil Azevedo, acting Public Works Director. “In addition to adding parking downtown, our goal is to address any impacts to traffic on the side streets and roads.”
Traffic will move southbound, with a mix of angled and paralleled parking stalls mauka. Angled parking will require motorists to reverse into the stall, which makes it safer for exiting the stall.