Gov. Linda Lingle has released $3.565 million to construct traffic improvements at two areas along Hana Highway on Maui.

The project will use $1.8 million to extend the length of the second through lane and the right-turn storage lane in the westbound direction by 2,000 feet before the intersection of Hana and Haleakala highways, a news release said.

The eastbound right-turn storage lane will also be extended by about 1,300 feet. Construction is scheduled to begin in March 2009 and be completed in December 2010.

According to the release, the remaining $1.765 million will be used between Uakea Road and Keawa Place in the Hana Historic District.

Culverts will be extended at two locations and the roadway will be widened to two lanes to allow for two-way traffic. Shoulders will also be paved between Kauiki Street and Pa'ani Park to provide an all-weather pedestrian path.

Construction is scheduled to begin next month and be completed in November.