HAKALUA, Hawaii – Hawaii County Civil Defense is reporting an emergency closure is planned for a bridge on Old Māmalahoa Highway in Hamakua.

Officials say Hakalau Stream Bridge will be completely closed beginning on Friday, February 10, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. and will remain closed until further notice due to public safety concerns.

A county public works official clarified that this closure applies to the county’s bridge, off Highway 19, and not the state’s Hakalau Bridge. The highway is not closed.

“The County conducted an assessment of the bridge and found the bridge’s northern abutment (foundation) has been undermined due to scouring from Hakalau Stream,” the county stated in a Thursday alert message. “A plan of action is in process to repair the bridge that will meet the National Bridge Inspection standards and ensure the public’s safety at this stream crossing.”

The Hakalau Beach Park will also be closed until further notice due to the closing of the bridge. No access will be allowed on either the bridge or the beach park, officials say.

“The County of Hawai‘i Department of Public Works apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause and thanks the community for their patience and understanding,” the county says. “If there are any questions or concerns regarding the bridge closure and work, please call Barett Otani, Information and Education Specialist, at 961-8787. Or visit the Department of Public Works website at www.hawaiicounty.gov. For information regarding the park closure, please contact Department of Parks and Recreation at 961-8311.”