Bynum Bridge at Lydgate Beach Park to close for scheduled maintenance

The Department of Parks and Recreation announced on Jan. 12 that Bynum Bridge in Lydgate Beach Park will be closed for scheduled maintenance from Jan. 26 through Jan. 29, 2026. The temporary closure is intended to allow maintenance crews to perform necessary work and protect public safety while repairs are underway.

The closure affects a key crossing inside Lydgate Beach Park, and the department advised park users and the public to plan accordingly. During the four-day period, visitors will not be able to use the bridge to move between sections of the park, which may change usual walking routes for families, kama‘aina, and visitors enjoying the east side shoreline. The county's notice asks people to expect work crews on site and to follow posted signage and instructions from parks staff.

For island residents and visitors who time their beach days, classes, or gatherings around Lydgate, the closure may require small adjustments. Access to other parts of the park will remain, but travel within the park could take longer. The department typically schedules this kind of work to limit disruption during peak seasons; nevertheless, Jan. 26–29 covers weekdays when school groups, local residents, and contractors may be on the road. Those planning events or group outings should consider alternate dates or routes inside the park.

This maintenance comes as part of ongoing efforts by county parks officials to maintain infrastructure that supports public use and safety. Keeping bridges and pathways in good condition preserves access for everyone and reduces the likelihood of longer closures in the future. For communities that rely on public parks for recreation, exercise, and family time, regular upkeep is an important, if occasionally inconvenient, part of stewardship.

The closure also underscores the value of checking park notices before heading out. Expect temporary barricades, clearly marked detours, and workers present during the scheduled window. If your plans depend on crossing the bridge, rescheduling to before Jan. 26 or after Jan. 29 will avoid interruptions.

The takeaway? Plan your Lydgate visit around the Jan. 26–29 timeframe, pay attention to signage while the crew is working, and consider shifting group activities to another day so everyone can still enjoy the park without unexpected detours. Our two cents? Treat these short closures as a small trade-off for safer, better-maintained public spaces.