The bill proposes the appropriation of necessary funds to the Department of Transportation for the planning, design, and construction of the new bicycle path. This funding allocation is set for the fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025, demonstrating legislative commitment to transportation infrastructure improvements. The anticipated outcomes of this bill include better traffic flow, enhanced safety for cyclists, and encouragement for more residents to engage in cycling, promoting both health and environmental benefits by potentially reducing vehicle emissions.
Summary
House Bill 1290 is a legislative proposal aimed at enhancing transportation safety in the Lower Puna district of Hawaii. The bill focuses on the construction of a protected bicycle path along Highway 130, from State Route 11 to Paradise Drive. Acknowledging the area's beauty, the bill also highlights the alarming rates of accidents impacting bicyclists, aiming to address this issue by segregating bicycle lanes from motor vehicle traffic. This initiative is designed to promote safer road-sharing between cyclists and motorists, thereby increasing the appeal of cycling as a mode of transport.
Contention
While the summary speaks positively about the bill's intent to enhance bicycle safety and promote cycling, there may be points of contention surrounding the funding and logistics of construction. Critics might point to budget allocations and prioritization of road safety enhancements versus other pressing infrastructure needs within the state. Furthermore, the timeline for completion, with the act set to take effect on June 30, 3000, raises questions about long-term planning and immediate impacts on transportation safety in the interim.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.