HONOLULU (AP) — The Hawaii Department of Transportation has removed barriers blocking parking near a beach on Oahu’s North Shore, but parking still isn’t allowed.
In place of the concrete slabs near Laniakea Beach, DOT has installed signs warning off possible beach goers, according to Hawaii News Now (http://bit.ly/1NyAVGO).
“No parking, stopping, standing, loading and unloading signs have been installed to prevent people from parking here,” said DOT Spokesman Tim Sakahara.
The barriers were installed in December 2013 and have been a point of contention between the state and community members.
A demonstration was held Monday to oppose the roadwork.
Supporters say the blocks increased the flow of traffic, which others argue they illegally block access to the beach.
The department is applying for a city permit to replace the barriers.
“They’ll consider whether or not that permit is accepted or denied,” Sakahara said. “If it’s accepted, the barriers will be moved back.”
In the meantime, the department will monitor traffic in the area and check that no one is parking illegally.