History of Interstates and U.S. Highways in Hawaii

Hawaii’s Interstate and U.S. Highway system is unique due to the state’s island geography, which requires a different approach compared to the mainland. Major highways in Hawaii include H-1, H-2, and H-3, which connect the key urban areas of Oahu, including Honolulu, Pearl City, and Kaneohe. Unlike most U.S. states, Hawaii does not have interstate highways that cross state borders but rather an intrastate system that helps facilitate local traffic.

Hawaii’s highways play a critical role in transportation, particularly on Oahu, where the majority of the state’s population resides. Highways such as H-1 handle heavy daily traffic volumes, especially during rush hour in and out of Honolulu. These roads are essential for moving both people and goods across the island, with tourism and local commerce relying heavily on the Interstate system.

Hawaii’s highway system continues to expand, with current and future projects focused on improving traffic flow and addressing congestion on Oahu. Planned projects include widening portions of H-1, upgrading interchanges, and extending certain highway corridors to better serve the growing population. Additionally, the state is investing in public transportation, including the Honolulu Rail Transit project, to complement the existing highway infrastructure.

Busiest and Longest Federal Interstates and U.S. Highways in Hawaii