Relating To Transportation.
With SB1535's passage, there would be a notable amendment to Chapter 264 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes. The director of transportation will gain the authority to exempt specific projects from lengthy review processes, provided they adhere to criteria like being in previously disturbed areas. These provisions allow projects aimed at constructing protective infrastructure, such as pedestrian pathways and bicycle lanes, that can enhance safety without extensive bureaucratic delays. This bill is expected to significantly streamline the process for improving transportation safety measures for vulnerable road users.
Senate Bill 1535 addresses critical traffic safety issues in Hawaii, particularly for pedestrians aged sixty-five and over. Reports indicate that Hawaii has the most dangerous roads for this demographic, with 117 traffic-related fatalities in 2022, up from 95 in 2014. The bill's primary aim is to expedite the implementation of vital safety projects by allowing the director of transportation to exempt certain ground transportation facility projects from historic preservation review and the environmental impact statement law under specified conditions. This change is intended to facilitate quicker, cost-effective safety improvements.
The sentiment surrounding SB1535 seems generally favorable among proponents who view it as a necessary legislative action to reduce pedestrian fatalities and improve road safety. Supporters argue that the bill is a long-needed response to alarming accident statistics, particularly for older adults. However, there may be apprehension among opponents regarding the balance between expedited construction and ensuring that necessary environmental and historical considerations are upheld, particularly in sensitive areas.
Notable points of contention regarding SB1535 revolve around concerns that bypassing historic preservation and environmental impact reviews might lead to unintended consequences, such as damage to significant sites or ecosystems. Critics argue that while the acceleration of safety installations is essential, the necessary studies and assessments should not be completely sidelined, especially in areas with potential archaeological value. This debate illustrates the tension between the urgent need for traffic safety improvements and the imperative to protect Hawaii's cultural and environmental heritage.