Urging The County Of Maui To Prioritize The Development And Planning Of The Northern Terminus Of The Kihei North-south Collector Road.
The resolution highlights the urgent need for the northern terminus to be defined as a means to connect communities efficiently and enhance infrastructure in anticipation of population growth. Despite previous funding efforts, including a significant federal grant awarded in 2023, progress has been described as limited. The absence of a planned northern terminus compromises the road's intended impact as an integral connector for the region, which could further exacerbate existing traffic problems if not addressed promptly.
HCR203 is a House Concurrent Resolution urging the County of Maui to prioritize the development and planning of the northern terminus of the Kihei North-South Collector Road. This road was initially envisioned in the 1998 community plan as a vital alternative route intended to alleviate traffic congestion on South Kihei Road and Piʻilani Highway. The increasing population in the Kīhei-Mākena area and the ongoing traffic challenges faced by residents necessitate a clear plan for this infrastructure project to enhance mobility and ensure public safety.
The discussion surrounding HCR203 indicates a general sentiment supporting the need for urgent infrastructure improvements while also highlighting the challenges that have historically delayed its planning. While stakeholders seem to agree on the importance of resolving traffic issues in the area, the resolutions also push for inter-agency collaboration among local governance structures to facilitate effective planning and development. This collective sentiment underscores a proactive approach to future-proofing transportation in the region.
Notably, the resolution also emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the County of Maui, the Maui Metropolitan Planning Organization, and the Maui County Public Works Department. This aspect raises questions about previous barriers in planning processes and also reflects the need for transparency and accountability in moving forward with the road's development. The requirement for a status report on the northern terminus planning due to be presented to the legislature by 2026 serves as a mechanism to track progress and maintain pressure on local authorities.