12-29-2013, 09:29 AM
I believe the area you are referring to near m.m 18 is a popular trailhead and the speed limit is reduced due to pedestrian traffic. It's not a very long stretch but it does have some of the worst visibility especially in the afternoon when its frequently socked in with fog and drizzle.
The 40 MPH zone between Mauna Kea park through just past the PTA gate is a triple whammy because you have the turn off to the only "rest area" (toilet) on the saddle and PTA right next to it, and I frequently see the remains of crushed animals in that area. I guess quadruple-whammy because there are always water trucks getting on and off the highway across from PTA. The road, exits, and turn offs are really good quality so I've never understood why it's only 40 through there. Seems like 45 would be slow enough.
The mm 40 area is a "limited visibility" issue because of the steep grade and hill. 45 is too slow IMHO, but I think its really wanting the people going 70 to slow down to 50.
The 40 MPH zone between Mauna Kea park through just past the PTA gate is a triple whammy because you have the turn off to the only "rest area" (toilet) on the saddle and PTA right next to it, and I frequently see the remains of crushed animals in that area. I guess quadruple-whammy because there are always water trucks getting on and off the highway across from PTA. The road, exits, and turn offs are really good quality so I've never understood why it's only 40 through there. Seems like 45 would be slow enough.
The mm 40 area is a "limited visibility" issue because of the steep grade and hill. 45 is too slow IMHO, but I think its really wanting the people going 70 to slow down to 50.