Revamped One-Way Free Parking Trial on Ali'i Drive in Kailua-Kona: Navigating Traffic and Finding a Permanent Solution for Affordable Parking in Kailua Village
Ali'i Drive segment to transition into one-way traffic on Thursday
Kickstarting May 1, 2025, a slice of Ali'i Drive will be transformed into a one-way zone to offer extra free parking to Kailua Village. This experimental phase, targeted at addressing parking struggles, will last for a trial run of 90 days [1][2][3]. The part of Ali'i Drive, spanning from Kailua Pier to Hualālai Road, will cater solely to southbound traffic, while the northbound lane will be repurposed as a parking hub for roughly 46 vehicles.
Juggling Traffic Congestion
The primary concern lies in managing traffic congestion during this trial period. By keeping a hawk's eye on traffic flow and tweaking traffic light patterns if necessary, officials aim to counter any negative promotions on connecting roads and avenues [2]. The new setup might inadvertently steer traffic toward adjacent streets, potentially causing congestion there. Nevertheless, the trial provides an opportunity for real-time adjustments to restrict unwanted impacts.
A Long-term Response for Affordable Parking
The trial's ultimate goal is to provide a lasting solution to Kailua Village's enduring parking affordability crisis. Assuming the trial proves successful, the Hawai'i County Council will be petitioned for permission to solidify the one-way traffic arrangement as a permanent solution [2]. Mayor Kimo Alameda hints at a potential permanent solution, should the trial demonstrate positive results [1][2].
Community Reactions and Future Plans
Gauging community feedback and addressing business apprehensions is crucial. The local business hierarchy perceives this as a step toward addressing parking issues but clearly calls for speedier resolution to invigorate downtown Kona [1]. Mayor Alameda hints that if parking spaces remain occupied overnight, the county might implement a two-hour parking limit [1].
In essence, while the trial could initially induce traffic alterations, its intent is to provide an attainable answer to Kailua Village's parking conundrum. The outcome will decide whether an everlasting change will be implemented, ensuring a lively and accessible community for both locals and tourists at large.
- To mitigate potential traffic congestion during the trial period, officials will closely monitor traffic flow and adjust traffic light patterns as needed for a smoother experience, also considering the possible diversion of traffic to nearby streets.
- As part of the trial, local businesses in Kailua Village will be closely consulted, and any concerns about the impact on their operations will be addressed, with the ultimate aim of finding a long-term solution to the community's affordability crisis.
- Upon the conclusion of the trail, assuming it proves successful, Mayor Kimo Alameda will seek approval from the Hawai'i County Council to transform the one-way traffic arrangement into a permanent solution for Kailua Village, ensuring more accessible parking for both local residents and tourists.
- The trial serves not only as an avenue for addressing traffic management but also as a potential stepping stone for the introduction of strategic parking zone regulations, such as a two-hour parking limit for overnight parking and restricted parking on specific streets.
- Should the one-way free parking trial yield positive results, it is hoped that the refreshed parking landscape will boost business growth in downtown Kona, bolster the local economy, and contribute to the overall refresh of Kailua Village as a thriving, vibrant community hub.
