Oahu motorists who use the H-1 freeway in town at night will have to seek alternate routes in the coming weeks.

Starting Thursday night, the state’s most heavily used freeway will close weeknights 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. in both directions from Likelike Highway to the area around Ward Avenue as crews work to complete the H-1 rehabilitation project.

Once they start, the freeway closures in town will run Sunday nights through Friday mornings, and they’ll last until June 26 weather permitting, state transportation officials said.

Crews contracted by the state Department of Transportation are aiming to complete the $42 million project in July, about two months ahead of schedule.

They’ve been digging into stretches of the freeway in both directions about 14 inches deep, rebuilding the roadway with what they describe as a “high performing” asphalt mix expected to last 10 to 15 years.

For updates and alternate routes, drivers are encouraged to visit www.H1rehab.com.