Hawaii House Bill HCR14

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/13/25
• Refer: 3/14/25

Caption

Requesting The City And County Of Honolulu To Transfer Its Authority To Construct A Makakilo Drive Extension To The State.

Impact

The lack of a second access route in Makakilo has resulted in increased traffic congestion and limited emergency vehicle access, undermining the quality of life for local residents. By proposing the transfer of authority to the state, HCR14 seeks to expedite the construction of the Makakilo Drive extension, which is projected to improve connectivity and facilitate economic growth in the region. The resolution reflects a growing consensus on the need for better infrastructure to ensure safety and enhance community resilience.

Summary

HCR14 is a House Concurrent Resolution from the Thirty-third Legislature of Hawaii, which requests the City and County of Honolulu to transfer its authority for constructing an extension of Makakilo Drive to the State. This extension aims to provide an additional route for ingress and egress for the residents of Makakilo, a community currently reliant on a single access road. The resolution is particularly significant in light of the 2023 Maui wildfires, which underscored the urgency for alternative evacuation routes to enhance safety during emergencies.

Contention

However, the discussions surrounding HCR14 also reveal some concerns regarding the potential for state overreach in local matters. While some stakeholders advocate for a strong state response to expedite the project, others question the wisdom of transferring local control. They argue that local entities might have a better understanding of the community's specific needs and priorities. Navigating these local versus state authority dynamics will be crucial in ensuring that the construction meets the demands of Makakilo residents.

Considerations

As the resolution moves through the legislative process, it may face further scrutiny regarding funding, environmental impact, and stakeholder input. Additionally, given the historical context of planning setbacks by the City and County of Honolulu, effective collaboration between local and state governments will be vital to address the longstanding promise to the community for improved access and safety.