Hawaii House Bill HCR19

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/24/23
• Refer: 3/3/23
• Report Pass: 3/31/23
• Engrossed: 3/31/23
• Refer: 4/3/23
• Report Pass: 4/21/23
• Passed: 4/24/23

Caption

Urging The Department Of Transportation Services Of The City And County Of Honolulu To Conduct A Feasibility Study Of Widening The Portion Of University Avenue Between Maile Way And Oahu Avenue To Become A Complete Street Providing Safe And Protected Transit For All Modes.

Impact

The proposed widening of University Avenue could lead to enhanced traffic safety in Manoa Valley, where current conditions pose safety concerns for users. Daily commuter traffic consists of various vehicles, including public transportation and emergency services, which creates an urgent need for a comprehensive solution to the area's traffic challenges. If the feasibility study finds that widening the avenue will benefit local transit systems, it could serve as a model for similar projects in other parts of the state, contributing to a broader initiative for safe and effective transportation infrastructure throughout Hawaii.

Summary

HCR19 is a resolution introduced in the 2023 legislative session urging the City and County of Honolulu's Department of Transportation Services to conduct a feasibility study on widening University Avenue between Maile Way and Oahu Avenue. The goal is to transform this segment into a complete street that accommodates safe and protected transit options for all users, including vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians. The Manoa Valley area, where this proposal is situated, is a densely populated residential neighborhood that experiences significant traffic due to its limited access roads and heavy usage by various daily activities.

Sentiment

Responses to HCR19 have been largely positive among community members and local government representatives who see the necessity of improving safety and accessibility in the densely populated area. However, there may be some reservations regarding the potential impact on local businesses or changes to the neighborhood’s character. Overall, the sentiment aligns with a recognition of the need for improved transportation solutions and designing streets that prioritize safety for all users.

Contention

One notable point of contention may arise from the balance of community desires for safety and the potential inconveniences or disruptions during construction and implementation phases. Furthermore, questions about budget allocation, prioritization of the project among other city transportation needs, and the long-term maintenance of the expanded infrastructure could also be points of debate as the feasibility study progresses and recommendations are reviewed.