Question: Construction on Ala Moana Boulevard between Kalakaua Avenue and Kalia Road seems huge. We have been assaulted by dust, noise, vibrations to the building, traffic jams, sewer odors and more. The trees look stressed. What exactly are they doing? When will it be done?
Answer: Yours is one of several questions Kokua Line has received about this project, all of which complained about similar disruptions. Hilton Grand Vacations is working to replace deteriorating sewer lines along Ala Moana Boulevard and Kalakaua Avenue, in conjunction with construction of The Grand Islander, a 418-unit tower that broke ground in June 2014. The sewer work is expected to wrap up in January, while the entire tower is supposed to be finished by the first quarter of 2017. It is at the intersection of Kalia Road and Paoa Place in Waikiki.
The sewer system improvements will replace about 2,600 linear feet of aging sewer line with a larger line better able to accommodate the growth in the surrounding areas; the life expectancy of the new line is estimated to be more than 50 years, according to a spokeswoman for Hilton Grand Vacations.
The company says it is working closely with its contractors to minimize the disruption and inconvenience, but the work does require some closures of traffic lanes and sidewalks. The website thegrandislanderupdate.com provides updates about construction, as well as a way to contact the company with questions or concerns.
The state Department of Health suggests contacting the company directly with concerns about noise, dust and other disruptions, for the most immediate response. If residents do so and are dissatisfied by the company’s response, they may report noise complaints to the DOH’s Indoor and Radiological Health Branch at 586-4700 and dust complaints to the DOH’s Clean Air Branch at 586-4200.
Q: Are federal agencies exempt from the plastic-bag ban? Some commissaries are still using plastic bags.
A: Yes. Oahu’s plastic-bag ordinance does not apply to businesses operating on federal property, whether they are privately owned or run by the government. “Military retailers, including privately owned businesses operating on military bases, are not subject to the ban. However, many of these businesses have voluntarily joined the community” in following the new law, said Markus Owens, public information officer for the city’s Department of Environmental Services. It took effect July 1.
Q: I was off island when the plastic-bag ban took effect. Now that I’m home, I’m thoroughly confused. One store hands me my carton of milk in a paper bag, which disintegrates by the time I get home; a grocery store hands me my bag of rice in a plastic bag. Sometimes takeout food is given to me in a plastic bag; sometimes I’m handed separate paper bags and milk bottles, impossible to carry with only two hands. I have no idea when I’m required to carry bags or when I can expect a bag from the retailer. Also, I have no idea whether I’m allowed to hand my customers a plastic bag for their purchases (some ceramics are too heavy for a paper bag). If you have a source where I could check out the rules, I’d appreciate it.
A: Detailed information about the Honolulu law, including the ordinance itself, can be found here: 808ne.ws/1L2OPAj. Exceptions and workarounds mean that many plastic bags remain in use.
Mahalo
My deepest thanks to the person who mailed my student ID/bus pass to my school. I am very thankful because without my ID I wouldn’t have been able to purchase my books for the fall semester, pick up my paycheck or use my bus pass. I only wish I could thank you in person. I was so sure that my ID was gone for good. I appreciate knowing that there are such kind and honest people like you. What a big relief! Just as I was so fortunate, I hope that good fortune falls upon you, too. — Mahalo from a grateful student!
Write to “Kokua Line” at Honolulu Star-Advertiser, 7 Waterfront Plaza, Suite 210, 500 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu 96813; call 529-4773; fax 529-4750; or email kokualine@staradvertiser.com.
