Transportation officials say work is to begin before the end of the year on the next phase of Maui's long awaited Lahaina bypass.

The work follows realignment that was necessary to avoid a cultural site, according to state Transportation Director Brennon Morioka.

He says construction will help boost employment in West Maui.

Morioka says the state is committed to bolstering the economy with such projects. He says starting the bypass in December will put a dozen people to work right before the holidays and allow more people to be employed through the year.

Officials say the realignment of the bypass will add to the $48 million cost but there is no firm estimate of how much.

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