HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0715.022 2022-2024 P/Fc
Dill 131
COI ,11
From: Marilyn Johnson
Sent: Monday, February 5, 2024 10:51 AM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Bill 131 support, agenda Finance Committee
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I support bill 131 to fund a STUDY about Puna Alternate Routes. The goal should be to define where one or more
alternate routes can be built to improve traffic flow, both within Puna and between Hilo and Kau districts.This may be a
new highway into Hilo, a Hilo bypass, and/or multiple residential connector streets between subdivisions so that not all
traffic is forced to Highway 130.
It was a mistake for council members to vote down bill 107 because it might impact Pana'ewa HHL, even though there is
already Council Resolution restriction regarding HHL.That is sadly lacking in imagination because there are many
improvements that do not go into Pana'ewa. Let the study do the work of finding viable alternate routes that are
solutions for all communities, and not let one community's fears dictate the region's future.
Puna is a fastest growing region and needs better infrastructure than what was originally planned to support
its many affordable subdivisions. Workers for both East and West Hawaii live in Puna because it offers
affordable housing, albeit with longer commutes. We deserve a study to learn how traffic can be improved,
and the cost to develop solutions.
Marilyn Johnson
Kehena Subdivision, Lower Puna
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Comm. No. �I ;•��
Ref. To: P 1�1 Ref. Date FE m 6 2024