Lane closures on Pikake and Nuhou streets to affect Līhu‘e traffic

The Kauaʻi Department of Public Works and Kōkua Geotech LLC are scheduling single-lane closures along portions of Pikake Street and Nuhou Street in Līhu‘e from Jan. 20 through Jan. 23. Work will take place each day between 8 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., weather permitting, while crews conduct geotechnical subsurface exploration.

The lane restrictions will be limited to single lanes rather than full road closures, but drivers should expect reduced traffic flow and intermittent stop-and-go conditions in the work zones. Flaggers will be stationed to direct traffic through the affected areas and maintain safe passage for both motorists and workers. The county is asking residents and businesses in central Līhu‘e to make appropriate arrangements, use alternate routes when possible, and allow extra travel time during the daytime work hours.

Geotechnical subsurface exploration gathers soil and subsurface data that typically informs future infrastructure, building or hazard mitigation projects. In island communities like Kaua‘i, such investigations play a role in resilient planning by helping engineers understand ground conditions before designing projects that must withstand storms, erosion and sea-level changes. The announcement did not specify the project tied to this round of testing.

Local impacts are likely to be modest but tangible during the work window. Morning and early-afternoon commuters, delivery vehicles, shuttle services and anyone with appointments in downtown Līhu‘e should factor the lane restrictions into travel plans. Small businesses along the affected stretches may see a brief change in customer flow during work hours; residents who rely on precise schedules for school drop-offs, medical appointments or interisland connections should leave extra time.

For questions or further details, contact Shayna Lopes of Kōkua Geotech LLC at 808-313-9605 or shayna@kokuageotech.com. Residents should also monitor weather forecasts, since the schedule is contingent on suitable conditions and may shift if rain or high winds occur.

This short-duration work is a routine part of public-works planning, but it serves as a reminder that even minor traffic changes in Līhu‘e can ripple through island schedules. Expect slower travel on Pikake and Nuhou during the work hours, plan alternates where feasible, and keep the Kōkua Geotech contact handy if you need specific information.