Hawaiʻi County and the Hawaiʻi Army National Guard have partnered to keep motorists near the Traffic Hazard Mitigation Route (THMR) safe amid the current Mauna Loa eruption.

Yesterday, National Guard troops arrived at THMR for a briefing with County officials related to their new post along the old Saddle Road. Approximately ten guardsmen will be posted along the THMR for 12-hour shifts. A total of 20 guards have been sent to help respond to the increased traffic, their presence is expected to last as long as the need is there.

In a press release Hawaiʻi County Mayor Mitch Roth said, “We’re excited to have the Guardsmen here with us through our current response to the eruption. As more and more vehicles make their way through the mitigation route, it’s imperative that we prioritize the safety of every person and vehicle on the roadway, which requires manpower that we just don’t have on our own. Adequate response relies on the partnership, and we are honored to have great partners in our fellow State and Federal agencies who have stepped up in this time of need to be there for the Hawaiʻi Island community.”

Photo credit: Office of Mayor Mitch Roth