HONOLULU -- The Department of Transportation is set to begin a major tree trimming project on the H-3 freeway.

On Monday, officials and tree experts were out checking along the freeway to make sure they don't cut back so much that it ruins the natural beauty of the highway.

Tree experts and landscaping consultants gathered Monday to examine the foliage near the H-3 freeway. Some of the trees hang over the freeway and pose a hazard, while others are termite infested or damaged.

DOT officials said they don't want a repeat of what happened two years ago along the H-2 freeway. So many trees were cut down to stumps, there was a public outcry. This time officials said they want trim without cutting down too much.

"Not just clear cutting and saying 50 foot clearance on both sides of the road and everything has to come out," Arbor consultant Steve Nimz said.

"We wanted to do a good job, maintain both the beauty of the H-3 and safety of passing motorists," said Tammy Mori, with the DOT.

The Outdoor Circle is involved in this project and they said it's a good plan.

"We have great confidence the work going to be done is needed and not going to go overboard like they did two summers ago on H-2," said Bob Loy, with Outdoor Circle.

Officials said 120 trees will be trimmed and about 20 will be completely removed. The right lane and shoulder will be closed while crews work on the trees.

The project begins Nov. 3rd and they hope to be finished in February.