DOT weighs how to address still-visible H-1 markings

Question: There are multiple lines all over the H-1 freeway, heading in both directions between Kahala and the Kapiolani Boulevard exit. It is so confusing, even to this longtime resident, because one doesn’t know where the lane markers are. What gives? I feel sorry for any tourist trying to find a way to Waikiki.

Question: What is the deal with all the stripes on the H-1 freeway in Kaimuki? When it is dusk or raining, it is really difficult to figure out where the lane markers are.

Answer: After more than a year of living with the patchwork of markings, the state Department of Transportation has decided something needs to be done.

We first reported on the $5.64 million project to extend the life of the concrete in the oldest section of
the H-1 freeway in 2011 — is.gd/V3tFeB. Subsequently the DOT told us the areas where steel rods were inserted to reinforce pavement joints would not be covered or the markings removed (is.gd/Pq12F4).

However, the markings have not faded as expected.

“Typically, the markings from ‘Dowel Retrofit Pavement Preservation’ projects would fade over time,” said DOT spokes­woman Caro­line Sluyter. Because “that doesn’t appear to be the case currently,” engineers will be testing several stains to cover the markings over the next few weeks “and hope to find something that will do the job,” she said.

They also are looking at possibly re-marking the lanes to make them more visible. The work will be scheduled, probably early next year, once the best approach is determined.

That segment of H-1 was the first stretch opened, in 1965. The pavement project involved installing steel rods, 18 inches long and 11⁄2 inches in diameter, to “allow the joints to better withstand the constant weight and force of passing vehicles,” Sluyter explained.

“The project was 100 percent funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which was designed to jump-start our economy by addressing needed highway improvements and creating and maintaining jobs,” she said.

Question: On a recent trip to Las Vegas, I checked my bag, making sure the handle was recessed and secure. Upon arrival in Vegas, I noticed my bag on the carousel with the handle all the way out. It was broken beyond repair. On the way home I asked the woman who was taking care of us about the incident, and she said that I was to report it within 24 hours, but no one was at the Hawaiian Air baggage area. In Hono­lulu, when I went to the baggage claim office, the woman told me they were not responsible for any broken wheel or handle. I can see the wheels being broken during shipment, but the handle being broken is plain neglect on someone’s part. Why isn’t the airline responsible for breaking my bag?

Answer: This is a case of checking the fine print when you purchase your ticket.

Spokesman Huy Vo pointed out that under its “Contract of Carriage,” Hawaiian Airlines is not liable for damage to baggage “unless it impairs the ability to protect its contents.”

Specifically, the airline says it is not liable for damage arising from the normal wear and tear of handling, including scratches, punctures, dents, stains and marks; damaged or missing protruding parts, including wheels or feet, pull straps, retractable luggage handles, zippers, locks, pockets, hanger hooks and security straps; damage as a result of overweight, oversize or overpacked baggage; or previously damaged baggage.

See is.gd/kBzH4J for more information.

You should also check the Transportation Security Administration’s website about how it handles claims: www.tsa.gov/traveler-information/claim-forms.

MAHALO

To a nice group of young people who offered to buy me dinner at McDonald’s Kahala. There were about a dozen high school students who may have belonged to a church group. I declined their offer because I had enough money to pay for my meal, but I greatly appreciate their kind generosity toward a complete stranger. — Appreciative Citizen