Hawaii Senate Bill SCR177

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/12/25

Caption

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

Impact

The resolution aligns with the recently finalized Oahu Pedestrian Plan, which aims to create safer and more accessible streets throughout Honolulu. The plan addresses the safety concerns surrounding pedestrian traffic, particularly highlighting that high-risk pedestrian areas, which represent only two percent of the city’s streets, are accountable for a significant portion of pedestrian fatalities and injuries. By adopting a 'pedestrian first' policy, the city would prioritize infrastructure improvements in these vulnerable areas, aiming to reduce accidents and enhance overall safety.

Summary

SCR177 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that strongly urges the Honolulu City Council to adopt a 'pedestrian first' policy via ordinance. This bill recognizes walking as a fundamental mode of transportation and emphasizes the importance of accommodating pedestrians effectively on city streets. It proposes the establishment of pedestrian priorities in decision-making, particularly when considering trade-offs between different modes of transport.

Contention

While the resolution itself may not directly lead to legislation, it reflects a growing recognition of pedestrian safety as a critical issue in urban planning discussions within Honolulu. There may be contention surrounding the implementation of such policies, particularly concerning budget allocation, the balance of funding between pedestrian and vehicular infrastructure, and the pursuit of community engagement in decision-making. Advocates for the resolution argue that prioritizing pedestrians can create a significant positive impact on the wellbeing of city residents, though some have raised concerns about the potential implications for traffic and transit systems.