Hawaii House Bill HR108

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/14/25
• Report Pass: 3/28/25
• Passed: 3/28/25

Caption

Strongly Urging The Honolulu City Council To Adopt A "pedestrian First" Policy Via Ordinance.

Impact

If adopted, this 'pedestrian first' policy would require the city to prioritize the safety and accessibility of pedestrian infrastructure in decision-making processes, notably where trade-offs between different transportation modalities might arise. The policy aligns with the Oahu Pedestrian Plan, finalized in July 2022, which outlines long-term strategies for enhancing pedestrian access and safety throughout the city. Such improvements could include the development of safe crosswalks, sidewalks, and pedestrian pathways that connect major destinations.

Summary

House Resolution 108 (HR108) urges the Honolulu City Council to adopt a 'pedestrian first' policy via ordinance. This resolution highlights the importance of safety for pedestrians, stating that walking is the most basic form of transportation and that accommodating pedestrians should be a primary focus of urban infrastructure. The resolution is presented against the backdrop of concerning pedestrian safety statistics in Honolulu, where high-risk pedestrian areas constitute only two percent of streets but account for a disproportionate share of pedestrian fatalities and injuries.

Contention

While the resolution serves as a strong endorsement for pedestrian safety, it may face potential challenges related to funding and resource allocation. Implementing a comprehensive pedestrian first policy will likely require significant investment in infrastructure, which could prompt discussions about budget priorities within the city council. Additionally, there may be contention among stakeholders concerning the balance of resources allocated to pedestrians compared to vehicular traffic, highlighting the need for careful planning and community consultation.