The state Department of Transportation is advising the public that that foul odors may be stirred up by a container yard reconstruction project in Iwilei over the next few months.

DOT crews plan to begin work on the project next month. The project involves improving 12 acres at Pier 29 at Honolulu Harbor with new drainage, water, sewer, lighting, fire protection and electrical systems.

The work, funded by a $24.5 million federal stimulus grant, will increase the capacity and efficiency of cargo operations at the harbor, the DOT said.

Because the work involves heavy excavation of land in an area with petroleum contaminants underground, the agency said odors may be noticeable when no trade winds are present or when Kona winds blow.

Excavation work is scheduled to run from late December through March. The whole project is scheduled to be completed in spring 2012.

DOT officials said air monitoring stations will be on site, and crews will sample soils. The project team has been working closely with the state Department of Health to minimize impacts on the public and the environment, Mike Formby, DOT interim director, said in a statement.

Anyone wanting more information is encouraged to attend a public informational meeting scheduled for Nov. 30 at Puuhale Elementary School cafeteria from 6-8 p.m.