The city is offering drivers an early Christmas present — calling a holiday halt to the big construction project on Kapi'olani Boulevard from today until mid-January.

That's according to Mayor Mufi Hannemann, who announced yesterday that the city will suspend work on the Kapi'olani Water and Sewer System Improvements project until Jan. 12.

Hannemann said the city knows the much-needed project is "a huge disruption" for drivers, residents and businesses. He thanked them for their patience and said the holiday hiatus will end the lane closings common with this project.

The $32 million project involves replacing sewer and water pipes that are 70 years old. The work is expected to last two years. The sewer portion of the project began in September, and the city will begin replacing the water mains starting from Ward Avenue next year.

"The project is absolutely essential to public health and safety," he said. "Once the holidays are over, we'll get back at it."

For more information, see the project's Web site at www.kapiolaniwatersewer.org or call the project's hot line at 587-8032.

TESORO HAWAII CHIPS IN

Hannemann also announced that Tesoro Hawaii has signed on to be the presenting sponsor for the popular monthly Sunset on the Beach events.

The company will provide $65,000 to help the Waikiki Improvement Association offer the beachfront movies on 30-foot screens for another year.

Tesoro Hawaii's production manager, Chuck Snyder, said the company looks forward to coming up with more improvements for the event and promises "more excitement and energy."

Waikiki Improvement Association President Rick Egged said the company's commitment means the show will go on at least through December of next year.

In years past, the program drew criticism from some council members and others who complained that it took city staff and resources away from more critical programs. Hannemann cut direct city spending on the events in Waikiki and in other communities by getting help from private companies and the association.

Hannemann said the program also will continue to go out as Rediscover O'ahu about six times a year, taking the big-screen outdoor movies to various neighborhoods.

Reach Robbie Dingeman at rdingeman@honoluluadvertiser.com.