Honorable Calvin K.Y. Say

Speaker, House of Representatives

Twenty-First State Legislature

Regular Session of 2002

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Transportation, to which was referred H.C.R. No. 95 entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this concurrent resolution is to request the Department of Transportation (DOT) to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of using existing railroad tracks and rights-of-ways to revitalize the use of rail travel as a means of transporting both residents and visitors.

The Friends of Pearl Harbor Historic Trail and several concerned citizens testified in support of this measure. DOT testified in opposition to this measure.

One of the major concerns of the general public is traffic congestion. With an increasing population and the construction of new homes statewide, the situation is sure to worsen.

Many suggestions to help alleviate this problem have been made, including the use of ferry systems, staggered work and school hours, the use of light rail systems, and moratoriums on homebuilding and automobile ownership. Your Committee understands that old railway corridors currently run through many communities throughout the State and may be a resource for alternative modes of transportation, including a revitalized railway system, to help alleviate traffic congestion throughout 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 concurs with the intent and purpose of H.C.R. No. 95 and recommends that it be referred to the Committee on Finance.