Two boys were hospitalized after being struck by vehicles Wednesday— one in Kalihi and the other in Laie — underscoring the need for motorists to exercise extreme caution when driving.

An 11-year-old boy was transported to a hospital in critical condition after being struck by a large truck as he crossed Waiakamilo Road in a crosswalk.

A 9-year-old boy was taken to a hospital in serious condition after being struck by a vehicle in Laie on Kamehameha Highway and Anemoku Street, fronting Laie Shopping Center.

Investigations are pending. Still, all motorists should drive more carefully and watch for pedestrians and bicyclists.

Young minds will tackle old problem

Never underestimate the potential of young, inspired minds.

That’s what the University of Hawaii is banking on as it launches its $10,000 “Make the Ala Wai Awesome” challenge, a worldwide student design competition seeking good ideas to clean up the foul waterway.

The challenge aims to start restoring the polluted canal — already a stinky bacterial problem in its own right, but with the potential of overflowing its contaminated waters into Waikiki if unusually heavy rains cause flooding.

After the next few months of outreach, the design challenge is slated to open Jan. 9, with a March 17 deadline; winners will be announced. in June.

For more, see alawaichallenge.org.