HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0609.054 2022-2024 P/ Counc►(
5ill 107
COMM,,OR
Attila C. Denes c)
14-833 Kapuna Rd.#2446
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Pahoa, HI 96778-6150
January 14,2024 - -�-
Office of the County Clerk 27,
25 Aupuni St. ._
Hilo, HI 96720
Re.Testimony in Support of Bill 107, Re. Puna Makai Alternate Route study
Dear County Council:
I am writing to offer my enthusiastic support for Bill 107,which would fund a study of the Puna Makai
Alternate Route that has been discussed for many years, but without any action.
As Council is undoubtedly aware, Puna's population is increasing rapidly,and is projected to continue
growing at a pace far greater than the North and South Hilo Districts over the next decade.Traffic
volumes on Highway 130,which is the only route into or out of lower Puna,are already pushed beyond
the roadway's capacity during the routine morning and afternoon commutes. If a natural disaster
required a hurried evacuation of Puna,the lack of alternate traffic capacity would result in chaos,and
potentially great loss of life.
The likelihood of a mass evacuation of lower Puna should not be underestimated. The recent tragedy in
Lahaina underscores how quickly emergencies can escalate and makes clear the need for governments
to plan ahead and ensure that adequate traffic infrastructure exists. This is both an economic and life-
safety imperative that Council must address.
Very respectfully,
Comm. N . U' _ •
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