Matsumoto’s Okazuya restaurant on Gulick Ave hopes to see business thrive during overpass reconstruction | News

KALIHI, Hawaii (Island News) — Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) crews have been seen working on the reconstruction of the Gulick Avenue overpass spanning the H-1 Freeway.

Along the street, the owner of Matsumoto’s Okazuya by JV Kitch said they will continue to keep their doors open for business since the pedestrian walkway will be accessible.

Starting Monday, Sept. 21st, Gulick Avenue will be fully closed to Beckley Street in Kalihi from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays.

“I would hope that the people who do frequent this street will continue to support us, but it limits the access of new people finding us,” said Matusmoto’s Okazuya Owner Vanessa Pascua.

Pascua is one of the new owners of Matsumoto’s Okazuya. The mom-and-pop is known for its grindz and grab-and-go bentos.

With over 20 years serving in the same location, Vanessa said its loyal customers have helped keep their doors open. The eatery has gotten a lot of recognition through drive-bys over the past year.

“I’m just afraid that it’ll impact our business. Especially because I believe last year when I checked in, the completion for the H-1 expansion, the freeway expansion, was supposed to be completed at the end of 2027,” said Pascua.

Before state crews begin reconstruction, they will open up the newly installed temporary pedestrian bridge to cyclists and pedestrians.

However, Pascua said she is already dreading the street closure since parking is already so limited.

“Since Beckley is closed, the only two other options to get to us would be on North School Street and North King Street, and also because we’re on the right side of the road, the only way to access us now when the closure does kick in will be on North School,” said Pascua.

The restaurant will continue to take orders, offering catering, but time will tell if they need to turn to other resources to get their food to customers.

“I don’t know how likely people will come to and drive in and then have to either U-turn,” Pascua continued. “But I’m hoping that the community will show out and still show support.”