Hawaii House Bill HCR156

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/14/22
• Report Pass: 3/30/22
• Engrossed: 3/30/22
• Refer: 3/31/22
• Report Pass: 4/28/22
• Passed: 4/29/22

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

The resolution encourages the Department of Transportation and the City and County of Honolulu to work together to integrate all vital traffic signals along the Waianae Coast with Honolulu's Joint Traffic Management Center. This connection is expected to facilitate a more proactive response to traffic conditions, thereby aiming to reduce gridlock situations that residents often face. Furthermore, it seeks to allocate additional resources for the maintenance and repair of existing traffic signals and sensors, which can contribute to more effective traffic management and overall public safety.

Summary

HCR156 is a House Concurrent Resolution that addresses the pressing traffic issues on the Leeward Coast of Oahu, primarily focusing on the Maipalaoa Bridge in Maili. The bridge has been identified as severely compromised due to years of deterioration, and with the last reconstruction dating back to 1970, the resolution calls upon the Department of Transportation to expedite necessary repairs. It also urges collaboration among various governmental entities to enhance transportation infrastructure in the region, aiming to improve traffic flow and safety for residents.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding HCR156 lies in the urgency and feasibility of implementing these improvements. While supporters argue that immediate action is necessary to alleviate traffic conditions that often lead to frustrating delays for residents, there may be concerns regarding bureaucratic delays or financial constraints that could impede swift progress. Additionally, discussions around the use of the Waianae Coast Emergency Access Road System may raise questions regarding its long-term viability and maintenance as a permanent parallel route.