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A measure to permanently restrict parking on Kalihi Valley streets has encountered a roadblock.
The Honolulu City Council has decided to send Bill 20, which aims to alleviate parking congestion and other quality-of-life concerns, back to the Committee on Transportation for further review.
If passed, Bill 20 would establish permanent “restricted parking zones” in Kalihi Valley where only vehicles with valid permits or identification could park. The program would be overseen by the city’s Department of Transportation Services, with annual permit fees determined by the director.
Council members Tyler Dos Santos-Tam and Radiant Cordero introduced the bill in March. Dos Santos-Tam and Cordero, who chair and vice-chair the transportation committee, believe the program would benefit Kalihi Valley residents and could be implemented in other neighborhoods on the island.
The proposed bill also includes provisions for time limits on parking and potential fee waivers for those experiencing economic hardship.
During the Council meeting, multiple versions and amendments of the bill were presented, causing confusion and complexity. Vice Chair Esther Kia’aina suggested sending the bill back to committee to simplify the process.
Dos Santos-Tam expressed his frustration with the decision, stating that the bill has been extensively discussed and should move forward. However, the majority vote supported referring the bill back to the transportation committee.
Members of the public who spoke at the meeting objected to the restricted parking program, arguing that it would not effectively reduce congestion and would privatize public roads.
DTS Director Roger Morton suggested further study and public input to determine the feasibility and benefits of the program.
Despite the setbacks, Dos Santos-Tam remains optimistic about the potential of the bill to address parking issues in Kalihi Valley and other communities in Honolulu.