SB1677 HD1

THE SENATE	S.B. NO.	1677
TWENTY-FOURTH LEGISLATURE, 2007		S.D. 1
STATE OF HAWAII		H.D. 1

A BILL FOR AN ACT

RELATING TO TRAFFIC CONTROL.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

SECTION 1. The legislature finds that an intelligent transportation system applies communications and information technology to provide solutions to congestion and traffic control issues. Such a system uses a variety of field devices in partnership with a traffic control center via a single mode fiber-optic network to effectively alleviate traffic congestion in a geographic area.

A traffic control center is a key component of a successful intelligent transportation system. Traffic control centers provide effective, efficient responses to incidents, special events, and roadway construction to ensure the smooth flow of traffic.

Traffic cameras employed by traffic control centers provide factual information for appropriate traffic decisions and signal adjustments. In addition, traffic cameras provide valuable information for motorists because they allow the televising of conditions at key intersections across an area. Motorists are able to view conditions at their destination, as well as traffic conditions along their route.

On Maui, traffic across the island is routinely gridlocked during morning and afternoon rush hours as a result of roadway maintenance and improvements, traffic accidents, or special events. Other examples of commuter traffic gridlock occur in areas such as Paia town where Hana highway meets Baldwin avenue, the Piilani highway corridor from Kihei to Wailea, and in Lahaina town where Lahainaluna road meets Honoapiilani highway. A traffic control center for the island of Maui, as part of an overall intelligent transportation system, would inform motorists about traffic conditions, maximize traffic flow, and enhance public safety.

The purpose of this Act is to appropriate funds for the development and implementation of an intelligent transportation system architectural plan for Maui, which includes a Maui traffic control center.

SECTION 2. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $ , or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2007-2008, for the development and implementation of an intelligent transportation system architectural plan for Maui, which includes a Maui traffic control center.

The sum appropriated shall be expended by the department of transportation for the purposes of this Act.

SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2020.