Hawaii House Bill HCR167

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/14/25

Caption

Urging The State Department Of Transportation And The City And County Of Honolulus Department Of Transportation Services To Implement Road Safety And Traffic Flow Improvements In Hawaii Kai.

Impact

The resolution highlights alarming statistics from a recent study indicating that 71% of drivers fail to yield to pedestrians at a key intersection in Hawaii Kai, which is the highest violation rate recorded among the ten evaluated intersections. By calling for immediate improvements, HCR167 aims to address these safety issues through the installation of crosswalks at critical locations, such as around Kalama Valley Community Park. The resolution also seeks to ease traffic congestion by recommending adjustments to traffic signal timings to facilitate smoother vehicle flow on Kalanianaʻole Highway, a vital thoroughfare for East Honolulu.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution 167 (HCR167) urges the State Department of Transportation and the City and County of Honolulu's Department of Transportation Services to implement critical road safety and traffic flow improvements in Hawaii Kai. The resolution responds to ongoing concerns from the community regarding pedestrian safety, particularly in areas that show a high incidence of speeding drivers and lack necessary pedestrian infrastructure like crosswalks and traffic calming measures. The resolution emphasizes the necessity of enhancing safety for residents, especially children who participate in local sports, where the absence of adequate crossing facilities poses a significant danger.

Contention

While HCR167 presents a proactive approach to enhance pedestrian safety, it is possible that there may be deliberation or contention regarding the allocation of resources and the prioritization of these improvements by local government agencies. Residents might advocate for quicker implementation of these measures, but budget constraints or differing priorities in transportation planning could affect the timeline and extent of the proposed changes. The resolution serves as a persuasive tool, advocating for a more integrated response to ongoing safety concerns in a community known for its residential density and reliance on pedestrian navigation.