Hawaii House Bill HR156

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/14/22
• Report Pass: 3/30/22
• Passed: 3/30/22

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Transportation Take All Necessary Steps To Expedite Work On The Maipalaoa Bridge In Maili, Oahu And Improve Traffic Signal Support On The Waianae Coast And Urging Various Entities To Work Together To Immediately Open The Section Of The Waianae Coast Emergency Access Road System Extending Paakea Road Out To Lualualei Naval Road For Public Use On A Permanent Basis.

Impact

The resolution seeks to enhance traffic signal support along the Waianae Coast by connecting all vital traffic signals to Honolulu's Joint Traffic Management Center. This integration aims to optimize traffic operations on the Waianae Coast, which has seen considerable traffic delays due to road closures and emergency conditions along the Farrington Highway, the main artery for the region. Collaborative efforts between state and local governmental agencies, as well as the allocation of additional resources, are pivotal in maintaining and securing the traffic signals essential for managing local congestion effectively.

Summary

House Resolution 156 (HR156) requests the Department of Transportation to expedite construction and improvement efforts related to the Maipalaoa Bridge in Maili, Oahu, which has become a critical point in ensuring traffic flow for communities along the Leeward Coast. The resolution underscores that the Maipalaoa Bridge, reconstructed last in 1970, is severely compromised, necessitating immediate action to alleviate traffic congestion routinely experienced by local motorists. Given the bridge’s deterioration, timely completion of upgrades is essential to restore safe access to the area.

Contention

Notably, the discussion around HR156 highlights the need for a permanent route among the gated roads of the Waianae Coast Emergency Access Road System. These roads, managed by the Department of Emergency Management, could provide critical alternative access points during emergencies or road construction activities. Emphasis is placed on the joint responsibility of the State of Hawaii, City and County of Honolulu, and other involved entities to ensure that this access is made available swiftly, ultimately aiming to improve road safety and traffic flow for affected communities.