Hawaii Senate Bill SR121

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/16/22
• Report Pass: 4/6/22
• Passed: 4/7/22

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

If enacted, SR121 would significantly impact local transportation statutes and emergency response protocols. It requests an immediate focus on opening the Waianae Coast Emergency Access Road System as a permanent route, allowing for better traffic distribution and emergency access. Additionally, by connecting vital traffic signals in the area to the Honolulu Joint Traffic Management Center, the resolution promotes coordinated traffic management and timely response to congestion, thereby potentially alleviating chronic traffic problems faced by residents and emergency services alike.

Summary

Senate Resolution 121 (SR121) calls upon the Department of Transportation and other authorities to expedite the reconstruction of the Maipalaoa Bridge in Maili, Oahu, while enhancing traffic signal support along the Waianae Coast. This resolution underscores the critical need for improved infrastructure in the region, which has long suffered from traffic congestion due to its reliance on the single access route of Farrington Highway. The proposed actions aim to improve traffic flow and enhance safety for motorists who frequently navigate this area, especially amid the ongoing issues with lane closures and construction delays.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding this resolution may arise from concerns regarding the allocation of resources and the management of construction timelines. Stakeholders, including local residents and business owners, may express unease about the potential disruption caused by ongoing bridge work or the surrender of local control to state entities managing traffic systems. Furthermore, ensuring that all parties, including the state, federal agencies, and private landowners, collaborate effectively will be crucial in the successful implementation of these infrastructure changes.