Nearly 45 members and invited guests attended our lunch meeting on July 18th at the new Dave & Busters in Ala Moana Center. The new space is 700 sq. feet larger than their previous Ward location and featured a variety of new attractions including the human crane and interactive arena play zone.
Attendees enjoyed new menu items like Slow Cooked Pork Ribs, Smoked Jalapeno Cheddar Sausage, Grilled BBQ Chicken, Baked Mac and Cheese, Baked Beans and Bacon, Honey Corn Bread with Whipped Butter and a variety of southern style sides and fresh fruit.
Fresh Fruits 
Slow Cooked Pork Ribs 
Grilled BBQ Chicken 
Smoked Jalapeno Cheddar Sausage 
Baked Beans with Bacon 
Baked Mac and Cheese 
Honey Corn Bread 
Southern Sides
A Few Words from the New Kid on the Block
Following lunch, Incoming Executive Director Brandon Lima shared a heartfelt reflection on his passion for asphalt and his career across both the private and public sectors. The room erupted in laughter when Brandon pulled a can of asphalt binder from his pocket, took a deep sniff, and exclaimed, “Ahhhh—there’s nothing quite like the smell of asphalt to start your day.” He quickly reassured attendees that binder-sniffing wasn’t part of his daily routine before diving into an overview of his professional journey.
A former HDOT Materials Testing & Research Branch staffer, Brandon emphasized the importance of partnership and collaboration between private industry and public agencies to deliver high-quality asphalt pavements for Hawaiʻi. He also took a moment to recognize and honor the career and legacy of HAPI’s current Executive Director, Jon Young, thanking him for his leadership and contributions to the industry.
Hawai’i LTAP Program Presentation
Up next, Program Assistant Director Roger Chen presented an overview of The Hawaii Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP). The program was created to support local transportation agencies and industry professionals through no- or low-cost training, technical assistance, and technology transfer. Funded federally and focused locally, LTAP offers in-person and virtual courses on pavement design, asphalt materials, safety, traffic operations, and more. Designed for field crews, engineers, and staff, sessions range from one-day workshops to multi-day programs. In partnership with groups like HAPI, LTAP strengthens Hawaii’s workforce and helps improve roadway safety and infrastructure management.
HDOT Perpetual Pavement Award
The Asphalt Pavement Alliance (APA) and The Hawai’i Asphalt Paving Industrt (HAPI) proudly congratulated the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation on receiving the 2024 Perpetual Pavement Award for Route 37—Kula Highway on Maui. Kyle Suzuki, Engineer-HDOT gave a presentation on the award-winning pavement. Originally constructed in 1932, Route 37 has received only two thin overlays in over 90 years, demonstrating remarkable performance with minimal structural distress. This national recognition, presented by the Asphalt Pavement Alliance, recognizes long-lasting asphalt pavements built with smart design and preventive maintenance. Mahalo to HDOT’s Maui District and local contractors for their commitment to durable, cost-effective infrastructure. This is Hawaiʻi’s second consecutive Perpetual Pavement Award win!
The meeting had something for everyone. We hope to see you at future lunch meetings. Out next meeting is tentatively scheduled for January 16, 2026 at Dave & Busters.
Attendees – Members and Invited Guests
Executive Director’s Appreciation Gifts
All appreciation gifts were purchased in Japan.
