Video by David Corrigan
During the discussion on Hu Honua BioEnergy LLC’s application before the Windward Planning Commission, residents opposing the project mentioned a number of issues they have with the plan.
One of the big sticking points is the impact the alternative energy project will have on the scenic Sugar Mill Road, connecting the Pepeekeo Power Plant to Highway 11.
Residents living along the road say the expected traffic from trucks hauling the green waste needed to fuel the biomass plant will create a dangerous situation along the downhill road, known to curve and twist on its way towards the coast.
In this video, Hu Honua president Rick McQuain admits the Sugar Mill Road concerns are legitimate, and explains his company’s position on the issue.
I have been a resident of pepeekeo for 23 years and walk and drive on the sugar mill road just about everyday. From what i can see the road is in great condition for big rigs to do some hauling compared to some of the roads in hilo town for example the intersection of Wainuenue AVE and Kamahamaha AVE. The sugar mill road has been used for many years and it will last for many years to come and all it needs is a little maintenance to help.