HAWAII NATIONAL PARK, Hawaii (AP) — An environmental review for constructing an emergency access route along a lava-covered section of a Hawaii road identifies concerns including the spread of invasive species and possible harm to endangered birds.
The National Park Service has agreed to accommodate two-way traffic on an alternate route to Puna to prepare for lava expected to flow over the district’s main road.
Construction is underway to re-establish Chain of Craters Road in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to its original width of 22 feet. Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi says the road will be a lifeline.
But the review released Tuesday says construction could spread invasive species such as little fire ants and coqui frogs hitching rides on vehicles from Puna.
The public has until Dec. 5 to comment on the review.
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