Hawaii Senate Bill SCR167

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/16/22
• Report Pass: 4/1/22
• Engrossed: 4/4/22
• Refer: 4/4/22
• Report Pass: 4/18/22
• Refer: 4/18/22

Caption

Urging The Department Of Transportation To Convene An Intergovernmental Task Force To Recommend Policy And Provide Guidance To Assist The County Of Hawaii In The Establishment And Formation Of A Metropolitan Planning Organization Or A Regional Transportation Planning Organization.

Impact

If enacted, the task force would significantly impact transportation planning in Hawaii County, which currently lacks a designated MPO. This establishment is crucial for enabling the County to effectively allocate and utilize federal funds aimed at enhancing public transportation services, which have been constrained by geographical challenges. The resolution emphasizes the urgency for Hawaii County to meet the potential growth in population for areas like Kailua-Kona, Hilo, or Puna, that may exceed the 50,000 threshold to justify the formation of an MPO.

Summary

SCR167 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution urging the Department of Transportation to convene an Intergovernmental Task Force aimed at providing guidance to assist the County of Hawaii in establishing a Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) or a regional transportation planning organization. The impetus for the resolution stems from the necessity to enhance collaboration among state, county, and local agencies to develop comprehensive transportation planning processes, particularly in light of federal funding opportunities and demographic shifts indicated by the 2020 Census.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SCR167 appears to be largely supportive, as it recognizes the need for improved transportation planning and the better allocation of federal resources. Stakeholders emphasize the importance of formalizing transportation frameworks that enable better access to infrastructure improvements and increased funding. However, there is a recognition of the complexities involved in establishing such an organization and ensuring that all community voices are adequately represented in the planning process.

Contention

A notable point of contention may arise from the logistics and management of the proposed MPO, particularly how it will address the diverse and geographic challenges of the County of Hawaii. There are concerns regarding the bureaucratic implications of establishing a new organizational structure, with some stakeholders questioning the effectiveness of governance and implementation strategies. Additionally, the adequacy of the MPO to address regional transportation needs while navigating the dynamics of state and local government cooperation is a crucial issue that needs to be addressed.