HI HR95

Requests the Department of Transportation, in consultation with the Board of Land and Natural Resources, to support a study on restoring traditional water flow to Kalauhaihai Fishpond and Maunalua Bay.

A ruptured lava tube from early 1990s highway widening diverted groundwater from the fishpond into utility lines and sewers, killing marine life and altering the bay's ecosystem.

A 2009 Environmental Assessment documented one million gallons of daily groundwater infiltration into Sewer Segment 3 mauka of the fishpond; a $9 million sewer rehabilitation provided only minimal relief.

The study should examine how restoring traditional water flow would reduce damage to utilities, sewer infrastructure, and Kalanianaole Highway (the fourth busiest highway in the state with 84,063 daily vehicles).

Department of Transportation must submit a report to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2012 Regular Session convening.