×

Two life-threatening problems Upcountry

As I was finishing this letter, they finally began cutting the grass after many months; however, because it was thick, it was just a dent in the morass — guardrails are still covered, the road shoulder still covered up to the white lines and sightlines blocked. So, this letter stands:

For 10 years, I have written many letters to The Maui News about the unkept highways and county roads Upcountry, and about the long-term and yet unresolved issues and dangers caused by too many downhill bikers on Kekaulike Avenue and Haleakala Highway — two life-threatening problems that seem beyond a competent solution given that not only have they not been solved, but more ignored by the state and county.

I have contacted state and county officials numerous times and none seem willing or up to the task of creating mutually agreeable solutions. Upcountry citizens are not being well served. Unfortunately, yet predictably, the two lingering issues have now converged!

Because of the overgrown grass obliterating the easement on both sides of the roads, blocking lines of sight, bikers are being forced to ride the main road more so than in the past, now far more prone to getting hit or causing accidents. And, apparently, no one responsible seems to really care!

Am I spitting in the wind? I’d rather use another metaphor, but politeness prevents me. Am I the only one publicly concerned, or simply obsessed with these deteriorating issues? Is anyone listening?

Vincent Linares

Kula

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper?
     
Support Local Journalism on Maui

Only $99/year

Subscribe Today