Hawaii is one of the most mountainous states in the United States, which is no surprise considering the islands were formed by volcanoes. However, despite its very mountainous terrain, it has one of the least number of bridges. This is because the state’s population centers tend to form in coastal areas. Nevertheless, this island state has some amazing bridges. The longest bridges span thousands of feet, and the tallest soar far over the valley. There are also bridges that are high enough for ziplining! These 5 bridges in Hawaii’s tropical paradise range from highway bridges to suspension footbridges!
5. Kapalua Suspension Footbridge
Length: 360 feet
This stunning footbridge could give you vertigo because it is more than 1500 feet above the Kapalua stream that runs beneath it! However, there’s an amazing ziplining experience from the middle of the bridge for those who don’t mind heights!
4. Hakalau Highway Bridge
Length: 775 feet
Under the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) program, the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT) was awarded a $74 million grant. The Hawaiʻi Belt Road Bridges Rehabilitation Project was assisted by this financing. The project’s primary goal was to renovate the vital Route 19 structure known as the Hakalau bridge. Environmental cleanup and substructure replacement were involved.
The important role of Hakalau Bridge, which connects the east and west sides of the island, was highlighted through a competitive grant. This grant highlights the importance of this transport connection. HDOT Director Ed Sniffen emphasized the importance of accessible and resilient infrastructure for Hawaii’s communities. He emphasized the importance of investing in these key elements. A variety of repair actions were carried out on the Hakalau River Bridge, including foundation replacement, column and truss repairs, deck repairs, and Pai.
3. Hanamaulu Highway Bridge
Length: 1,150 feet
On Kauai, the high bridge spanning the Hanamaulu Valley, known as the Kapulu Highway, is a notable landmark just outside the airport. Modern, safe concrete highway bridges sit 50 to 100 feet above the valley floor, ensuring safe travel. It also provides a comfortable experience for travelers.
This feature eliminates concerns often associated with older buildings. Unlike Hanamauru Bridge, which can be bypassed, Kapur Highway is an integral part of the route. It plays an important role in providing the necessary connectivity. The road to the canyon has an impressive descent, and guardrails have been installed for added safety. Although not particularly dangerous, some sections of the road have piers for views of the canyon.
2. Bridge Admiral Clarey
Length: 4,672 feet
The Admiral Clarey Bridge is 4,672 feet long and is often referred to as the Ford Island Bridge. It connects the mainland of Oahu, the third-largest island in Hawaii, to Ford Island in Pearl Harbor. Interestingly, a 930-foot section—the widest floating moveable span in the world—is supported by pontoons. This creative design feature enables the bridge to handle passing vessels.
The bridge is used by military families and tour buses touring Ford Island’s historic sites. This replaces his previous hourly ferry service by the US Navy. Named after one of the Navy’s most distinguished officers, Admiral Bernard A. Clare, this bridge is a symbol of comfort and engineering prowess. Historically, access to Ford Island was initially restricted.
Restricted to U.S. military personnel, dependents, and invited guests. Ferries such as Waa Hele Honoa and Moko Holo Hele were the mainstay of transportation. Waahelehonoa she was acquired in 1959 and was able to transport 750 people and 33 vehicles.
1. Interstate H-3 Airport Viaduct
Length: 14,890 feet
Phase 3 of the H-1 Freeway Airport Viaduct Improvements project was initiated by the Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) and will impact drivers on OŻahu starting on Friday, April 28, 2023. Between the Pearl Harbor Interchange and Ke’ehi Interchange, two to three westbound lanes were closed each night from 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. from Wednesday through Sunday.
Phase 3 focused on improvements for westbound traffic after Phase 2’s eastbound roadwork was largely completed. Pavement markings, concrete overlay on the Airport Viaduct, sealer and surface overlay installation on onramps and offramps, and deck and expansion joint repairs were all included in this.
On-ramp and off-ramp closures were imposed throughout Phase 3, with advance public notification following schedule finalization. The completion of the roadwork is scheduled for August 2024, subject to weather conditions. Throughout the process, HDOT emphasized how important it is to factor in additional time for travel.