Hawaii Senate Bill SR48

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/9/23
• Refer: 3/10/23

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.

Impact

The resolution highlights Manoa Valley's status as a critical area for both residents and visitors, with heavy use stemming from educational institutions and local parks. Conducting a feasibility study could lead to proposed modifications in traffic patterns and infrastructure, potentially influencing state transportation laws and local policies. If the study reveals support for widening the roadway, it could result in increased accessibility and improved traffic flow, benefiting the larger community while addressing safety concerns raised by local stakeholders.

Summary

Senate Resolution 48 (SR48) urges the Honolulu Department of Transportation Services to conduct a feasibility study for the widening of University Avenue between Maile Way and Oahu Avenue. This resolution is rooted in the identified need to enhance traffic safety and alleviate congestion within the Manoa Valley area, which is home to a densely populated residential community and multiple educational institutions. With limited routes for ingress and egress, University Avenue experiences significant daily traffic from a variety of vehicles, raising safety concerns for residents and visitors alike.

Contention

While the resolution emphasizes the need for improved safety and accessibility, there might be opposition from local residents concerned about the potential environmental impact and changes to the character of their neighborhood. Widening the road may lead to increased vehicle traffic and additional development pressures, which some community members may view negatively. Balancing the necessity of traffic safety with community preservation will likely emerge as a focal point of discussion as the feasibility study progresses.