Relating To Port Infrastructure.
If enacted, this bill will mandate the Department of Land and Natural Resources to develop a detailed strategic plan for maintenance dredging, including key components like sand bypassing, dewatering, and beach nourishment. It will also require the completion of at least two dredging projects as defined in the strategic plan within a specified timeline. This proactive approach will aim to mitigate potential closures of small boat harbors and related infrastructure, preserving access for public use and local fishing activities.
House Bill 1320 focuses on enhancing the infrastructure of ports within Hawaii by establishing a systematic approach to maintenance dredging. The legislation aims to address the current inadequacies in funding and permitting processes that arise only when dredging needs become critical. By creating a proactive strategic plan, the bill aspires to ensure that necessary improvements are not only identified but also timely executed, reducing the risk of damage to ships and ensuring the usability of critical recreational and subsistence fishing sites.
While the bill presents a structured plan for addressing the dredging needs of small boat harbors, it could face scrutiny regarding the specifics of funding appropriations and the effectiveness of the proposed strategies. Questions may arise on the selection criteria for projects to be prioritized in the strategic plan and the adequacy of the appropriated funds, which currently includes provisions for $3 million for the fiscal year 2024-2025. Stakeholders may debate the prioritization of projects and the implications of the proposed plan on local communities, particularly those relying on the affected port infrastructures.