RELATING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION.

2024 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 6 co-sponsors

HB 2270 establishes a task force to improve transportation and emergency access routes in Hawaii, enhancing safety and response times for Waianae Coast residents and services.

Reported from TCA/PSM (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 3252) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading and referral to WAM.

#dot #kolekolepass #taskforce #waianaecoastemergencyaccessroad

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2270 (HB 2270) aims to enhance transportation infrastructure and emergency access routes in Hawaii, specifically focusing on the Kolekole Pass and the Waianae Coast. The bill seeks to establish a task force that will address the planning, development, and maintenance of these critical transportation routes, ensuring safer and more efficient access for residents and emergency services.

Key Provisions

Establishment of a Task Force: The bill proposes the creation of a task force dedicated to the oversight and strategic planning of the Kolekole Pass and the Waianae Coast Emergency Access Road.

Focus Areas: The task force will evaluate current transportation needs, propose improvements, and ensure that emergency access routes are adequately maintained and accessible.

Collaboration: The task force is expected to collaborate with various stakeholders, including local government agencies, community organizations, and transportation experts, to gather input and develop actionable plans.

Affected Parties

Residents of Waianae Coast: The bill directly impacts the local community by improving access to essential services and enhancing safety during emergencies.

Department of Transportation (DOT): The DOT will play a crucial role in implementing the recommendations made by the task force and overseeing the necessary infrastructure improvements.

Emergency Services: Improved access routes will benefit emergency responders, allowing for quicker response times during crises.

Legislative Timeline

Introduced: January 22, 2024

First Reading: January 24, 2024

Committee Reviews: The bill has undergone several committee reviews, including:

Transportation (TRN) on February 8, 2024
Finance (FIN) on February 23, 2024
Public Safety and Military Affairs (PSM) on March 15, 2024

Second Reading: The bill passed its second reading on March 22, 2024, and was referred to the Ways and Means Committee (WAM) for further consideration.

Conclusion

HB 2270 represents a significant step towards improving transportation infrastructure in Hawaii, particularly for the Waianae Coast community. By establishing a task force to focus on critical access routes, the bill aims to enhance safety and accessibility for residents and emergency services alike. As it progresses through the legislative process, stakeholders and community members will be closely monitoring its developments and potential impacts.

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