Hamakua report: Waipi’o Valley 4-Wheel Drive Access Bill

(BIVN) – The issue of inexperienced drivers taking the dangerous drive down the Waipi‘o valley access road is being addressed this year at the state legislature.

House Bill 1767, if passed, would require a low-gear, four-wheel drive vehicle for access to the valley, as well as the Mauna Kea Science Reserve.

HB1767 HD2: RELATED TO MOTOR VEHICLES.

Prohibits any vehicle, except a low-range, four-wheel drive vehicle, from being driven through or in Waipio Valley or the Mauna Kea Science Reserve, except under certain circumstances.

Introducer(s): NAKASHIMA

Its been a matter important to Waipi‘o Valley for years.

On February 7, the Hawaii County Council took up a resolution in support of the House Bill.

Taro farmer Jim Cain, a long-time advocate for the residents and culture of Waipi‘o Valley, testified on the council resolution from Waimea.