Department of Transportation | HNL pedestrian bridge replacements completed

HONOLULU – The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) has completed the replacement of the three pedestrian bridges connecting Terminal 2 ticket lobbies to the Daniel K. Inoue International (HNL).

“The new pedestrian bridges were a necessary upgrade to our facilities at Daniel K Inoue International Airport,” said Ross Higashi, deputy director of airport transportation for Hawaii. “Hallways not only provide convenient access for passengers and people working at the airport; they also contribute to the open architectural feel of HNL.”

Construction of the $22 million project began in 2019. The bridges replaced three buildings constructed in the early 1970s. Work has been done in phases to reduce the impacts on travelers. The Iowa Pedestrian Bridge opened in the first quarter of 2021, followed by the Diamond Head Bridge in the third quarter of 2021. The last bridge to open was the Mead Bridge in December 2021.

Steel pedestrian bridges design provides more space than previous bridges. The bridges increased in width by three and a half feet, and their height spanned more than four feet. The bridges were designed by HDR engineering and architecture and the general contractor was Nan, Inc.

Notable design elements of the new pedestrian bridges include:

• Full height windows create a sense of openness while filling the space with natural light
• Telescopic windows allow trade winds to permeate the bridge, making travelers comfortable
• Upgrades structural columns and plinths to meet modern seismic requirements
• Design elements that include provisions for future additions
• Long-lasting, low-maintenance materials that reduce maintenance required, such as hydrophilic and self-cleaning coatings on windows reducing the need for window washing

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