HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0138.036 2000-2002 James Arakaki, Chairman
Hawaii County Counsel ,
10I Aupuni Street ~ ' ~ ~
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
Victor Vierra
280 Naniakea Place
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
Dear Chairman Arakaki:
This is in regards to the issue of whether or not to reopen Lihiwai Street once renovations
to Liliuokalani Park are completed.
First let me say that the park is now a very enjoyable place to use now that it is more
user-friendly. My wife and I use the park daily for exercise and find more and more
people, both local and visitor, using the park because of its beauty and amenities.
Initially, I was against opening the park to vehicular traffic. Being able to walk through
the park without the noise and pollution of cars, trucks and buses was a blessing. The
roadway as well as the sidewalk could be used for activities making the park all the more
enjoyable. However, the more I used the park the more I realized that many people are
being deprived of the park's beauty because they are unable to get to the park by
vehicle. This park is for all the people and should therefore be made accessible to all.
Much money was utilized to install wheelchair ramps and parking stalls within the park.
This will be for naught should the park remain closed.
I realize that by opening the park to vehicular traffic once more you will invite the
old problems of speeding, pollution and the like. The speeding can be addressed with
strategically placed speed mounds and appropriately placed signs prohibiting stopping
and standing should prevent or at least deter tour buses from polluting the area with their
fumes.
The concern of the park being used for late night drinking can be addressed by gates that
will make the park inaccessible to vehicular traffic after certain hours. The city of
Honolulu used this ploy successfully at Magic Island Park after late night drinking
sprees got out of hand. Those using the park after certain hours must now pack their
gear and walk in. The illegal drinking almost came to a halt or is now manageable.
There is another issue that hasn't gotten much attention but begs to be addressed and that
is the use of skateboards, bicycles and in-line skates within the park. Currently there are
no signs preventing their use but I can tell you as a regular user of the park that there is
a problem brewing that is bound to get worse unless it is addressed.
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Groups of young men and boys on skateboards, bikes and skates are using the park
benches along the ocean side of the park to do their tricks and stunts. The groups
range from two up to eight and are there every evening between four and six. Their
activities force walkers and joggers to the opposite side of the park and at least five
of the benches-rendered useless because they are being used as ramps. These
stunts and tricks require speed and, thus, long lengths of sidewalk are needed. With
falling bodies and flying, out of control skateboards all around, other park users are
forced out of the immediate area for their own safety. I've spoken to these kids about
the damage their causing to the benches and the danger they are causing to other people.
Some have listened but most have been defiant and continued their activity.
Ironically, opening up the park to vehicular traffic would probably help solve this
particular problem. Because these activities require the use of the roadway, vehicular
traffic moving through the area would force the skateboarders off the road. Additionally.
the opening of the road would allow police to drive through the area helping to
deter any illegal activity. In the months we've being using the newly renovated park, we
have yet to see an police officer on foot in the area. They often pass through Banyan
Drive in their cars but don't get into the park area.
This is a controversial issue requiring tough and wise decision making. I suggest to
those making the decision -use the park for a couple of hours on a couple of days to
get a feel for what people are talking about. Then decide.
Thank you for allowing some input. I hope this helps.
Sincerely,
G
Vi Terra