2020-01-29 Letter to Henry J.C. Aquino and Troy N. Hashimoto HB 1676, Relating to Highway Safety (2)

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Roy Takemoto co.• Managing Director it Harry Kim •:�I� •d„�'/. :* Alaror +° Barbara J. Kossow �Tt of.N'� ` Deputy Managing Director County of Hawaii Office of the Mayor 25 Aupuni Street,Suite 2603 • Hilo, Hawai'i 96720 • (808)961-8211 • Fax(808)961-6553 KONA: 74-5044 Ane Keohokalole Hwy., Bldg C • Kailua-Kona, Hawai'i 96740 (808)323-4444 • Fax(808)323-4440 January 29, 2020 Representative Henry J.C. Aquino, Chair Representative Troy N. Hashimoto, Vice Chair Committee on Transportation Dear Chair Aquino, Vice Chair Hashimoto, and Committee Members: RE: HB 1676, Relating to Highway Safety Thank you for hearing HB 1676. I testify in support of this measure. As our populations grow, so does traffic, leading to more traffic congestion and greater driver frustration. Frustration, in turn, can lead to more carelessness or more risk taking, such as pushing the envelope on running red lights to save a few precious seconds. There are jurisdictions on the mainland and around the world where traffic laws are ignored and driving is chaotic. Though some might think that Hawaii has already achieved that state, in truth we have managed to retain some respect for law, even traffic laws, and we need to do what we can to assure that our standards do not deteriorate, and perhaps even move up a notch or two. The preamble to HB 1676 is an excellent summary of our history with red-light enforcement, and why we should authorize the counties to try pilot programs. It may be necessary to prove to the public that such programs can be administered fairly and are in the best interest of the traveler—whether driver, bicyclist, or pedestrian. HB 1676 will provide that opportunity for those counties that wish to participate. I ask for your favorable action on HB 1676. Respectfully Submitted, 7? - Harry Kim MAYOR County of Hawaii is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.