HONOLULU – Gov. Linda Lingle has released $4.7 million in construction funds for the second phase of a project to stabilize slopes along Hana Highway.

Work will include the removal of overhanging, protruding and unstable rocks from the slopes above Hana Highway between mileposts 19.18 and 19.52.

The first phase of the project is already completed and covered the area between mileposts 11.05 and 11.31.

The total project cost for phase two is $5,267,000, which includes previous allotments totaling $567,000 for design and planning.

DOT will work with the contractor on a construction schedule to reduce the impact on traffic, especially during the rainy months and busy visitor season.