Hawaii Senate Bill SCR198

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23

Caption

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct An Audit On The Department Of Transportation's Pali Highway Resurfacing.

Impact

The audit mandated by SCR198 is intended to provide transparency and accountability in the management of the Pali Highway resurfacing. It will allow for a thorough examination of financial records and project execution by the Department of Transportation. By bringing to light any deficiencies in the project management or execution, stakeholders, including legislators and the public, can gain insights into the reasons for the delays and inefficiencies. This could prompt necessary adjustments or improvements in future infrastructure projects undertaken by the state.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 198 (SCR198) requests an audit by the state auditor on the Department of Transportation's Pali Highway resurfacing project. This project, which began in May 2017, has faced significant delays, with a completion date initially projected for December 2020 but now expected to extend into August 2023. As of now, the project is approximately seventy-five percent complete, causing ongoing inconvenience for commuters due to lane closures and uneven road conditions. The resolution aims to ensure that residents receive timely updates regarding the status of the project.

Contention

Points of contention surrounding SCR198 may arise from differing perspectives on the effectiveness and efficiency of the Department of Transportation. Supporters of the audit may argue that it is essential for holding agencies accountable for their performance and ensuring that public funds are used appropriately. Conversely, opponents may express concerns regarding potential politicization of the audit process or the implications of negative findings on public perception of state government capabilities. Additionally, those directly impacted by the project's delays may also voice their frustrations, advocating for quicker resolutions to the ongoing disruptions.