What is the goal of the project?
The Daniel K. Inouye Highway Extension Project (previously referred to as the Saddle Road Extension Project) aims to improve the general efficiency and operational traffic movement between East Hawai‘i and West Hawai‘i; support special traffic needs, including commercial truck traffic and military traffic between Kawaihae and the Pōhakuloa Training Area; and improve safety for all users.
Where is the project located?
The project proposes the final segment to extend the Daniel K. Inouye Highway (State Route [SR] 200, formerly known as Saddle Road) from Māmalahoa Highway (SR 190) to the Queen Ka‘ahumanu Highway (SR 19) in the South Kohala District, Hawai‘i Island.
Is this the same Saddle Road Extension Project that HDOT was previously leading?
Yes. HDOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Central Federal Lands Highway Division published a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the project in 2017 and held a corresponding public hearing and comment period. Due to funding constraints, the project was put on hold in 2018 and is now being reinitiated. The current phase will build upon the previous efforts, including preparation and publication of an updated National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and Hawaii Environmental Policy Act (HEPA) EIS documenting any project refinements and updated environmental impacts and findings.
What is the anticipated project schedule?
HDOT is currently reinitiating the project and will begin preparation of updated Environmental Impact Statements (EISs) compliant with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and Hawai‘i Environmental Policy Act (HEPA) in Summer 2026. The EISs and corresponding decision documents are anticipated to be completed by 2028. The Design and Right-of-Way phases are expected to occur from 2028-2035, and construction is projected for 2031-2035.
How can the public be involved in the planning process?
Check our Public Involvement page for opportunities to get involved.
How can I contact the project team?
Please send us a message by using the Contact Us feature on our website.