Relating To The Oahu Community Correctional Center Site.
Should this bill be enacted, it establishes a framework for a collaborative approach to planning the future utilization of the OCCC site. The working group will explore crucial aspects such as zoning adjustments, ownership issues regarding surrounding infrastructure, and the integration of the area with the upcoming rail project. The goal is to ensure that redevelopment not only fits within the community's needs but also addresses potential increases in public safety and economic vitality. This structured planning is particularly significant given the past environmental issues cited, including lead contamination near the site.
Senate Bill 949 aims to address the relocation and redevelopment of the Oahu Community Correctional Center (OCCC) site in Kalihi, Hawaii. The legislation recognizes that the current location is inadequate for its intended purpose, impacting both the inmate population and the surrounding community. With the proposed Honolulu rail transit project set to develop nearby, there are concerns that the existing jail could obstruct urban development and growth. As part of this initiative, the bill proposes the establishment of a working group that includes state and county agencies, private sector representatives, and community members to explore optimal uses for the site post-relocation.
While the bill sets forth a constructive path toward redevelopment, it also highlights the complexities and potential points of contention inherent in such community-focused initiatives. Key issues include existing zoning regulations that may need to be modified to accommodate new developments and ensure that the area is safely integrated with both social and economic needs. The working group's focus on public input reflects an awareness of the balancing act required to achieve a project that meets community desires while facilitating growth and modernization in Kalihi.