Hawai'i has received $1.96 million in U.S. Department of Transportation grants for roadway construction and improvements on Maui and the Big Island, and for construction of an interchange along H-1 Freeway on O'ahu to ease traffic congestion in the Kapolei area.

The funding was announced yesterday by congresswoman Mazie K. Hirono, D-Hawai'i.

Hirono said $1,059,458 in federal funds will be used in the design and construction of various transportation improvements. The projects include a parking area within the property of Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge on Maui.

The funding will also go toward roadway improvements within the Kakahaia National Wildlife Refuge on Moloka'i and within the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge on the Big Island.

The remaining $905,520 in federal funds will be used to help pay for the construction of a new Kapolei Interchange Complex along H-1 Freeway on O'ahu. An on-ramp and off-ramp interchange near Wakea Street in Kapolei will be built.