HONOLULU -- Stimulus funds of $35 million have paved the way for a new road on the Big Island.

The Ane Keoohokalole Highway is a planned $1.7 mile roadway from the intersection of Palani Road and Henry Street to Kealakehe Parkway.

Only a small section of the road currently exists, but the initial phase of the project will create a two-lane limited access roadway. It also includes bike lanes and sidewalks.

The project will also improve a third-of-a-mile stretch on Palani Road between Queen Kaahumanu Highway and Henry Street.

"This $35 million project represents the largest infrastructure project in the state of Hawaii," said Mayor Billy Kenoi.

Some folks were concerned about the project because there are known burials in the area, but officials said all of them will be preserved in place.