HECO replaces
transformer
for Pali tunnels

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By Leila Fujimori
lfujimori@starbulletin.com

Hawaiian Electric Co. replaced a blown transformer yesterday ending months of flickering, dimness and darkness in the Pali Highway tunnels.

Although the new transformer controls the tunnel lights, it will also help restore lighting by next week along the Kailua side of the tunnels, which has been out for months.

HECO, assisted by the state Department of Transportation, replaced the aging transformer shortly after 1:30 p.m. yesterday after a day and a half of work on the project, said Blaine Kawamura, tunnel manager for operations of the Pali, H-3 and Wilson tunnels.

Town-bound traffic on Pali Highway was slowed Wednesday and yesterday as crews worked on the project.

Power had been taken off-line Wednesday to install the new transformer, leaving the tunnel dark. Portable lights were used to illuminate near the tunnel entrances.

As far back as March, the tunnel lights started to flicker, and repairs were made then. "But on this last go-around it became irreparable," Kawamura said.

Tunnel lighting had been dim or out, and the problem was not immediately resolved because transportation officials wrestled with the decision whether to spend the time to have a new transformer manufactured or look for other options.

"We cannot afford to stock those things," Kawamura said.

So the Transportation Department turned to HECO, with a large stock of transformers and the ability to repair problems quickly.

A preliminary closure occurred two weeks ago to allow HECO to examine the wiring and an existing utility pole to ensure it could handle the weight of the new transformer before the actual replacement, Kawamura said.

"In the long run, everybody's going to be better off," Kawamura said. If any other problems arise in the future, HECO has replacements readily available.

HECO spokesman Fred Kobashikawa said HECO is in negotiations with the Department of Transportation to take control of the electrical distribution system of the Pali Highway lighting, which would include transformers, wiring and switches.