HAWAII NATIONAL PARK, Hawaii (AP) - An environmental review for constructing an emergency access route along a lava-covered section of Chain of Craters Road identifies concerns including the spread of invasive species and possible harm to endangered nene.
The National Park Service has agreed to accommodate two-way traffic on an alternate route to Puna to prepare for lava flowing over the district’s main road. Construction is underway to re-establish the 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.
The review released Tuesday says a potential impact is spread of 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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