Gov. Linda Lingle today announced the release of $400,000 for design safety and accessibility improvements to 74 signalized pedestrian intersections on O'ahu.

The project calls for installing pedestrian signals with countdown timers; evaluating intersections to ensure compliance with national road standards; designing and constructing sidewalks, curb ramps and bus stops to meet Americans with Disabilities Act requirements, and conducting a feasibility study for a pedestrian bridge on Halawa Heights Road between Ka'akau Place and Kealaluina Drive.

The total project cost, including construction, is estimated to be $2.7 million. Design is scheduled to begin in spring 2009 and be completed in early 2010. Construction is expected to start in summer 2010 and be completed six months later.