Hawaii Senate Bill SCR137

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/16/22
• Report Pass: 4/6/22
• Engrossed: 4/7/22
• Refer: 4/8/22

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Transportation Take All Necessary Steps To Expedite Work On The Maipalaoa Bridge In Maili, Oahu And Improve Traffic Signal Support On The Waianae Coast And Urging Various Entities To Work Together To Immediately Open The Section Of The Waianae Coast Emergency Access Road System Extending Paakea Road Out To Lualualei Naval Road For Public Use On A Permanent Basis.

Impact

If enacted, the measures called for in SCR137 aim to enhance traffic flow and safety for residents and visitors traveling along one of Oahu's main routes. The resolution reflects a public safety initiative to alleviate congestion caused by regular lane closures and accidents on Farrington Highway. By improving the infrastructure and facilitating a better traffic management system connected to the Joint Traffic Management Center, SCR137 aspires to establish a more reliable transport network for the communities on the Leeward Coast, thereby fostering better access and emergency response capabilities.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 137 (SCR137) seeks to address significant traffic and infrastructure challenges facing the Waianae Coast on Oahu, Hawaii. The resolution requests the Department of Transportation to expedite the repair of the Maipalaoa Bridge, which has been deteriorating since its last construction in 1970. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for improved traffic signal management along the Waianae Coast and urges various government and community entities to collaborate in reopening the Waianae Coast Emergency Access Road System for permanent public use, specifically extending Paakea Road to Lualualei Naval Road.

Contention

While the resolution is likely to receive support for addressing local traffic concerns, there may be contention surrounding the resource allocation for such projects, as well as debates about the best methods for interim traffic relief during construction phases. Some stakeholders may express concerns regarding the long-term impacts of opening the emergency access road, particularly regarding safety, environmental considerations, and the oversight of usage by local authorities. Therefore, community input and inter-agency cooperation will be critical in navigating these discussions.