STAND. COM. REP. NO. 1432

 

Honolulu, Hawaii

                  

 

RE:    H.B. No. 529

       H.D. 1

 

 

 

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirtieth State Legislature

Regular Session of 2019

State of Hawaii

 

Sir:

 

     Your Committee on Transportation, to which was referred H.B. No. 529, H.D. 1, entitled:

 

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO MOTOR VEHICLES,"

 

begs leave to report as follows:

 

     The purpose and intent of this measure is to prohibit any vehicle, except for a low-range, four-wheel drive vehicle, from being driven through or in Waipio Valley, except under certain circumstances.

 

     Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from one member of the Hawaii County Council.

 

     Your Committee finds that Waipio Valley road is one of the steepest roads in the world.  A two-wheel car can burn its brakes out on the way down, or stall its engines on the way up due to the numerous twists and turns coupled with a 25 percent grade incline.  Your Committee further finds that parts of the slope on Waipio Valley road can reach up to 37 percent gradient, equal to the steepest street in the world.  Your Committee also finds that Waipio Valley has gained popularity via social media due to its natural beauty and therefore has attracted individuals unfamiliar with the road, causing potential safety issues.  Although there are signs to inform individuals of the dangers of driving on Waipio Valley road, many are ignoring these warnings.  This measure will establish stricter penalties regarding the types of vehicles permitted on Waipio Valley road, thereby improving the safety for residents and visitors of the State.

 

     As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Transportation that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 529, H.D. 1, and recommends that it pass Second Reading and be referred to your Committee on Ways and Means.

 

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Transportation,

 

 

 

________________________________

LORRAINE R. INOUYE, Chair