KAPOLEI, Hawaii (AP) State officials say they expect a $17 million road project in West Oahu to open the way for $1 billion in construction.

The governor, lieutenant governor and officials of the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands participated in dedication ceremonies for the new East-West Connector Road.

They say the road will dramatically improve the quality of life for area residents.

The new route will link residential communities on the Ewa Plain to Kapolei and the H-1 freeway.

Hawaiian Home Lands director Micah Kane said the road will bring traffic relief by connecting busy Fort Weaver Road to the future University of Hawaii West Oahu Campus, the planned Kroc Community Center, new schools, community parks and more than 2,400 affordable homes.

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