"Well-maintained infrastructure and a robust transportation network make way for farmers to transport their produce to market, our keiki to safely walk to school, and families to visit relatives near and far. Roads, seaports, airports, dams, and public transportation are part of the foundation of a healthy economy."
Priorities
Due to our state's central location in the Pacific and island chain geography, Hawaii has unique transportation needs. Senator Akaka works closely with the other members of the Hawaii congressional delegation, Senate authorization and appropriations committees, and federal agencies to obtain resources for essential road projects and transit programs in Hawaii.
The maintenance and expansion of our infrastructure helps drive our economy. In 2005, it was estimated that $1.6 trillion was needed to bring the nation's infrastructure from a D rating to a B rating. Today that figure is $2.2 trillion. Delay only exacerbates the problem, and can be tragic as evidenced by the collapse of the I-35W bridge in Minneapolis in 2007 and the Ka Loko Reservoir Dam on Kauai in 2006. Senator Akaka will work to advance needed infrastructure improvements and continue his leadership on dam rehabilitation legislation and dam safety law.
As a member of the Senate Bike Caucus, Senator Akaka recognizes that bicycles are a great form of recreation and exercise, and a practical form of transportation, especially in well-planned communities. Like walking and riding public transportation, bicycling lowers energy use and traffic.
Recent Accomplishments
Senator Akaka recognizes the importance of maximizing public transportation's safety, convenience, reliability, proximity, accessibility, and timeliness. He has helped secure federal funds for the Honolulu High Capacity Transit Corridor Project and rural bus service on Neighbor Islands. These programs help to reduce our reliance on imported fuels that pollute our islands, promote economic development, and provide additional transportation options for families. In addition, with Honolulu's driving travel times among the worst in the nation and increased traffic on Neighbor Island highways, these programs aim to increase efficiency and reduce the time spent on the road.
The transportation sector accounts for 28 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, and Senator Akaka is a strong proponent of strong fuel efficiency standards for automobiles. He is also a long-time supporter of hydrogen energy and fuel cell technologies, and one of his initiatives, the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technology Act of 2005, was included in the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (P.L. 109-58). The Act promotes the research and development of advanced hydrogen fuel cell vehicle technologies.
Additional Information
Hawaii State Department of Transportation
U.S. Department of Transportation
