Q. I work at the airport and noticed that a contractor just finished millions of dollars of work on the roofs. The first time it rained, they leaked along the walkways and near the curbs on the departure level. What's the problem?

A. The major roofs of the overseas terminal have been replaced, along with the internal drain lines, "and are working properly," said state Transportation Department spokesman Scott Ishikawa.

If something does go wrong and they leak, Ishikawa said the roofs are still under warranty and "there is a maintenance provision for many years into the future, so the contractor will correct any deficiencies which might surface." He said parts of the 'ewa concourse roof were also replaced.

He said the roof and drain replacement for the overseas terminal cost $6.3 million, and the roof replacement at Gates 31-44 in the 'ewa concourse cost $834,000.

Expect to see other roofs still being repaired, Ishikawa said. The contracts will start early in 2007. He did acknowledge that during the last rains, a couple of leaks were found related to the "Third Level Wiki Wiki Strengthening Project." He said the leaks were traced to drain-line bowls that were not being grouted properly. And he said the contractor is still working at the airport and will repair the deficiencies.

Ishikawa said there is some other good news: "The new roofs on the overseas terminal contain state-of-the-art solar ventilation fans and vents that will not pass rainstorm water but keep the ticket lobbies cooler."

In general, Ishikawa said, the airport is in much better shape, but there is more work to be done, including replacing some expansion joints in roadways.

Q. You wrote that smoking isn't allowed at some bus stop enclosures. What if a bus stop is located near a door to a public building?

A. Because the new state law bans smoking within 20 feet of entrances and exits of public buildings, smoking also is prohibited in those areas, said city Transportation Services Director Melvin Kaku. That's even if those bus stops don't have enclosed shelters.

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