2016-25 Report of the Ad Hoc Committee on Puna Connectivity 9.14.16 (2)

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APPENDIX F - 1 geometrician ASSOC I A T E S, LLC integrating geographic science and planning phone: (808) 969-7090 fax: (866) 316-6988 PO Box 396 Hilo Hawaii 96721 rterry@hawaii.rr.com June 30, 2016 Dear Neighbor or Agency/Organization Official: Subject: Early Consultation for Environmental Assessment for Puna Subdivision Connector Roads to Volcano Highway in Vicinity of Mountain View, County Job No. E- 4377, Puna District, Island of Hawai i Our firm is in the process of preparing an Environmental Assessment (EA) for a proposed County of Hawaii activity, in compliance with Chapter 343, Hawaii Revised Statues (HAR), and Title 11, Chapter 200, Hawaii Administrative Rules (HAR). The County of Hawaii, Department of Public Works (DPW) is proposing a project to improve the connectivity of Puna subdivisions with Volcano Highway (State Highway 11), particularly in the area centered on Fern Acres. The purpose is to improve road accessibility during events such as floods, fires, automobile accidents, or other emergencies that block subdivision roads, connector roads, or Volcano Highway. The project addresses certain needs identified by the Connectivity and Emergency Response Subcommittee of the Puna Community Development Plan Action Committee. The three component sub -projects under study include 1) the improvement and extension from Volcano Highway to Puhala Road of South Lauko Road; 2), the improvement and extension from Volcano Highway to Puhala Road of South Psyzk Road; and 3) the extension of Puhala Road south to South Kopua Road (see map attached at end of letter). Depending on the outcome of the EA, funding availability, and other factors, the County may choose to construct one, two, all three, or none of the component projects under study. Because County funds and lands are involved, the EA will be required to comply with Chapter 343, HRS and Title 11, Chapter 200, HAR. The Hawaii County DPW is acting as the proposing/approving agency for the EA. The areas of investigation in the Environmental Assessment will include but not be limited to the following: drainage, flooding and water quality assurance; flora, fauna, and ecosystems; traffic impacts; geology, soils, and hazards; social and community impacts; cultural practices and historic properties; and economic conditions. Please note that surveyors, biologists, and hydrologists will be conducting field studies on the above-named routes over the next several months. I would appreciate your comments on any special environmental conditions or impacts related to the development. Please contact me at 969-7090 if you have any questions or require clarification. Kindly indicate whether you wish to receive a copy of the EA or notice of EA availability when it has been completed.