Requesting The Agribusiness Development Corporation To Designate Kunia, Leilehua Plateau, And Poamoho As The Central Oahu Agricultural Corridor And To Establish A List Prioritizing Potential Agricultural Infrastructure Improvement Projects That Would Provide The Most Value To The State.
The bill mandates the Agribusiness Development Corporation (ADC) to identify and prioritize infrastructure projects that would provide maximum value to the state. This includes considerations such as anticipated increases in agricultural output, project costs, and alignment with county and state land use plans. Furthermore, the Department of Transportation is requested to implement specific safety measures on roadways within the designated agricultural corridor, including speed limits and no-passing zones. Thus, the resolution has the potential to fundamentally reshape agricultural practices in the region by fostering better infrastructure.
SCR139 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that seeks to enhance agricultural productivity in Central Oahu by designating Kunia, Leilehua Plateau, and Poamoho as a central agricultural corridor. The resolution emphasizes the necessity for improved agricultural infrastructure to support Hawaii's local food production, which is currently reliant on imported goods. It aims to mitigate risks associated with food supply disruptions, particularly in the wake of natural disasters or global events, by bolstering local farming capabilities and ensuring the state meets its goal of doubling food production by 2030.
The sentiment surrounding SCR139 appears generally positive among legislators and stakeholders in the agricultural sector. Supporters view the resolution as a strategic move towards increasing self-sufficiency and resilience in food production, which is vital for Hawaii's unique reliance on imported food. The emphasis on infrastructure improvements is expected to resonate well with the agricultural community. However, potential opposition may arise from concerns about land allocation, environmental impacts, or the prioritization of agricultural development over other community needs.
Despite the general support for SCR139, there could be contention regarding the allocation of state resources for agriculture versus competing interests, such as tourism or urban development. Critics might argue that while increasing agricultural production is essential, it should not come at the expense of other vital areas of the economy. Additionally, questions may arise about the feasibility and sustainability of proposed infrastructure projects, as well as the potential impacts on local ecosystems and land use.