HI SR83

Requests the Department of Transportation to conduct a study on the feasibility and cost of constructing a small commercial boat harbor and small commercial airport in south Puna on the Island of Hawaii.

Cites Puna's rapidly growing population, proximity to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park as a tourist destination, and potential supply disruptions from lava threatening Highway 130 as justification for the infrastructure study.

Notes existing limitations including the Pohoiki boat ramp being too small for commercial activity and Hilo Harbor and Hilo Airport being the nearest commercial facilities, requiring six to eight hours roundtrip travel time from Puna.

Requires the Department of Transportation to report findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the convening of the 2016 Regular Session.

Directs transmission of a certified copy of the resolution to the Director of Transportation.