Hawaii House Bill HCR21

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/15/24
• Refer: 3/8/24
• Report Pass: 3/28/24
• Refer: 4/3/24
• Engrossed: 3/28/24

Caption

Urging The City And County Of Honolulu To Work With The Department Of Transportation To Plan And Implement Options For Alternative Ingress And Egress In Mililani Mauka.

Impact

If enacted, HCR21 aims to establish additional emergency access routes, improving the overall preparedness of the Mililani Mauka community. Currently, the area relies on only one primary route which poses potential risks during emergencies, such as natural disasters or other evacuation scenarios. By addressing emergency access, the resolution supports the legislative findings on the importance of effective emergency planning and aligns with best practices for evacuation efforts, stressing that communities need to be equipped to manage crises effectively.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution 21 (HCR21) urges the City and County of Honolulu to collaborate with the Department of Transportation to develop and implement alternative ingress and egress options for the Mililani Mauka community. This resolution stems from concerns raised during recent discussions on emergency preparedness, particularly highlighted by the devastating Maui wildfires, which underscored the critical need for multiple evacuation routes in times of crisis. The resolution emphasizes that having unobstructed access for emergency vehicles is vital for reducing response times and ensuring public safety in emergencies.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HCR21 appears to be largely positive, with many recognizing the necessity for enhanced safety measures following the alarming real-world implications of insufficient emergency routes. Legislators and community stakeholders who support the resolution suggest that it represents a proactive step toward safeguarding lives and property, reinforcing the importance of public safety in legislative considerations. There is a shared understanding that the swift implementation of alternative routes can have a substantial impact on community resilience in the face of future emergencies.

Contention

Despite general support for HCR21, there may be concerns regarding the feasibility, funding, and timeline for implementing new access routes. Community members and officials may have differing opinions on the best methods for development, potential disruptions during construction, and the prioritization of resources when planning new infrastructure. As the City and County of Honolulu prepares to meet the legislative request, these discussions are expected to focus on overcoming logistical challenges and ensuring that the developed plans effectively meet the community's needs.