HI HR69

Urges the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, Department of Transportation Highways Division, and Hawaii County to collectively develop a plan to improve Mealani Road and establish a protocol for its use as an emergency bypass route when Mamalahoa Highway is inaccessible.

Identifies Mamalahoa Highway as the only road providing entry and exit from the east side of Waimea in Hawaii County, with closures creating significant problems for residents accessing schools, work, and essential services.

Designates Mealani Road, an unimproved road under Department of Hawaiian Home Lands jurisdiction, as the only existing potential emergency bypass route during Mamalahoa Highway blockages.

Requests a report be submitted to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the Regular Session of 2021 describing the improvement plan and emergency bypass protocol.

Requires certified copies of the resolution be transmitted to the Hawaiian Homes Commission Chairperson, Department of Transportation officials, Hawaii County Mayor and Council, and Hawaii County department heads including Public Works, Civil Defense, Police, and Fire.