Hawaii has long been a bucket list vacation spot for travelers. Our 50th state has beautiful beaches, snorkeling, surfing, and lush, tropical views. And that’s before mentioning its history, both as a kingdom and as it became part of the United States.
Save for traffic in highly populated and/or popular areas, Hawaii is also very drivable. And as a bonus for locals and visitors alike, the state boasts no toll roads.
Unfortunately, that last part may soon be in the past, as Hawaii’s new Senate Bill 217 (a.k.a. SB 217) aims to introduce the very first toll road to the Aloha State. And, of course, the plan is to put the tolls on Hawaii’s most popular and congested highways, including the Hana Highway.
The Hana Highway: A Scenic Yet Overcrowded Route
Colloquially known as The Road To Hana, the Hana Highway is a 64.4-mile stretch of HI Routes 36 and 360 on the island of Maui. The road, which includes a twisting, winding, narrow mountain road, connects Kahului to the town of Hana.
The Road to Hana is in red
Known for its breathtaking views, as well as multiple waterfalls and other stops along the way, The Road to Hana is a very popular scenic highway for tourists to drive. Of course, because of its popularity, the road, which has multiple one-lane stretches, is frequently overrun with tourists who cause congestion, safety issues and environmental concerns with their rental cars (and let’s not even get into the illegal parking).
Over the years, officials have tried to decrease pressure on the road by installing more than 70 “No Parking” signs along the highways. Fines can be upwards of $235 per violation, but illegal parking and dangerous pedestrian activity continued as major issues. Officials then began recommending visitors take advantage of tour buses, but options were limited and, at upwards of $299 per person, cost prohibitive.
Current Challenges and Controversies Surrounding Tolls
SB 217 suggests that tolls would be implemented between mile markers 32 and 40, which is undoubtedly, and not coincidentally, one of the most congested parts of the highway. To officials’ credit, the bill seeks to exempt local residents, but the legality of that (charging/not charging for different groups) is already being questioned.
If the bill passes, The Road to Hana will not be the only highway officials are looking at. Honolulu’s H-1, H-2, and H-3 freeways are potentially in the DOT’s crosshairs, as could North Shore Kauai Road (from Hanalei to Kee Beach).
What’s Next for Hawaii’s Highways?
So far, SB 217 passed its initial hearing. Next will be the Senate Transportation and Cultural and the Arts Committee for their review.
Watch this space.
Feature Photo: David Fulmer // flickr // CC BY 2.0
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