Hawaii House Bill HR162

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/14/25

Caption

Urging The State Department Of Transportation And The City And County Of Honolulus Department Of Transportation Services To Implement Road Safety And Traffic Flow Improvements In Hawaii Kai.

Impact

The resolution specifically calls for the installation of crosswalks in Kalama Valley, especially around community hotspots like Kalama Valley Community Park and the intersection of Hawaii Kai Drive and Kealahou Street. It also encourages studying and implementing traffic calming measures throughout Hawaii Kai to address the persistent issues of speeding. These changes aim to create a safer environment for pedestrians, particularly children and other vulnerable community members, thus potentially reducing accidents and fostering more pedestrian-friendly spaces in the suburb.

Summary

House Resolution 162 urges the State Department of Transportation and the City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Transportation Services to enhance road safety and traffic flow in Hawaii Kai. This resolution is a response to community concerns regarding the safety of pedestrians, particularly in areas where speeding is prevalent and crosswalks are lacking. A study revealed that a significant percentage of drivers were not yielding to pedestrians, highlighting an urgent need for measures to improve safety at identified high-risk locations.

Contention

Participants in the legislative discussions may engage in debates over the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed improvements. While community members advocate for immediate action to enhance pedestrian safety, some lawmakers might question the allocation of resources or the timelines for implementing such changes. The resolution does not mandate immediate funding or specific changes, which may lead to discussions about prioritization and practicality in achieving these road safety enhancements.