Hawaii Senate Bill SR87

Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/16/26
• Refer: 3/19/26

Caption

Urging The Counties To Integrate The Safe System Approach Into Road And Transportation Design, Especially When Reducing Or Eliminating Off-street Parking Requirements, To Increase Pedestrian Safety.

Impact

The resolution highlights a crucial tension created by the reduction or elimination of off-street parking requirements, which has resulted in higher on-street parking demand. This shift has intensified safety concerns, particularly on narrow streets and rural roads that lack adequate infrastructure, such as paved sidewalks. The resolution urges counties to mitigate such risks by adopting design principles that enhance roadway safety, including the installation of visibility enhancements for crosswalks, bicycle lanes, and other safety measures. As such, if implemented, these recommendations would lead to significant changes in local transportation planning and infrastructure standards across Hawaii.

Summary

SR87 is a Senate Resolution urging counties in Hawaii to adopt the Safe System Approach in road and transportation design, focusing on pedestrian safety, especially in light of the ongoing elimination of off-street parking requirements. The intent of the resolution stems from the challenge of balancing increased housing development with the pressing need to maintain safe travel routes for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly in areas where parked cars obstruct visibility and force residents onto roadways. This ongoing issue poses significant safety risks to vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly who rely on safe access to their neighborhoods and community spaces.

Contention

Although the resolution promotes pedestrian safety, it may also generate debate regarding the implications for road use, automobile access, and parking dynamics in urban and rural areas. Critics may argue that stricter pedestrian safety measures could restrict vehicle access or complicate commuting for residents reliant on cars for transportation. Additionally, concerns about the potential financial burden on counties to implement the changes outlined in the resolution, particularly regarding infrastructure improvements and maintenance, may arise. Therefore, the resolution represents not just an impulse toward enhanced safety but also a challenge to existing transportation norms and economic considerations within the counties.