STAND. COM. REP. NO. 1408

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE:    H.C.R. No. 162

Honorable Colleen Hanabusa

President of the Senate

Twenty-Fifth State Legislature

Regular Session of 2009

State of Hawaii

Madam:

     Your Committee on Transportation, International and Intergovernmental Affairs, to which was referred H.C.R. No. 162 entitled:

"HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING THE IMPORTANCE OF BICYCLING,"

begs leave to report as follows:

     The purpose of this measure is to encourage Hawai‘i residents to ride bicycles for transportation as well as recreation, and to urge the Department of Transportation to embrace "Complete Street" policies that acknowledge the contributions of bicycles as a means to reduce vehicle miles by integrating bicycle use into standard street design.

     Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Department of Transportation, Hawaii Association of Independent Schools, and one individual.  Written testimony presented to the Committee may be reviewed on the Legislature's website.

     Bicycling can provide multiple and cross-cutting benefits in policy initiatives that seek to address transportation needs, limit climate change and energy consumption, and improve public health.  Bicycle commuters help reduce traffic by leaving automobiles at home, thus also saving on fuel costs, vehicle maintenance, and parking expenses.  Your Committee notes that bicycling is an integral part of the Complete Street policy as endorsed by the Department of Transportation.

     As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Transportation, International and Intergovernmental Affairs that is attached to this report, your Committee concurs with the intent and purpose of H.C.R. No. 162, and recommends its adoption.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Transportation, International and Intergovernmental Affairs,

____________________________

J. KALANI ENGLISH, Chair