HI SCR78

Requests the Department of Transportation to prioritize funding to widen Kuakini Highway between Henry Street and Kamehameha III Road on Hawaii Island and consider making it a continuous four-lane highway.

Cites ongoing traffic congestion on this roughly 1.7-mile stretch that causes traffic jams lasting several consecutive hours during morning and evening commutes.

Notes North Kona's population increased by approximately 4,000 people (to nearly 42,000 total) between 2010 and 2016, adding pressure to the highway.

Acknowledges that widening the highway could cost tens of millions of dollars, partly due to property acquisition needs, and that federal and state priorities now focus on maintaining existing roadways rather than construction.

Directs transmission of certified copies to the Director of Transportation and the Mayor of the County of Hawaii.