S.R. 173 Summary

• Urges the State and City and County of Honolulu to partner in completing the Lei of Green from Waikiki to West Oahu as a model for statewide green space expansion.

• Prioritizes completing the Lei of Parks connection from Diamond Head to Aloha Tower, which currently has gaps including a missing path from Ala Moana Beach Park to Kewalo Basin Park and from Kakaako Waterfront Park to Keawe Street.

• References the Lei of Green planning policy introduced by landscape architect Lewis Mumford in 1938 to promote walkability, recreation, safety, and connectivity through interconnected parks, open spaces, greenways, and tree-lined pedestrian paths.

• Aligns with Hawaii State Plan goals to preserve healthy social, economic, and physical environments and protect scenic, natural, and marine resources while adapting to climate change impacts on coastal areas.

• Directs certified copies of the resolution to the Governor, Board of Land and Natural Resources Chairperson, Director of the Office of Planning, and Mayor of Honolulu.