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Anyone driving has noticed a vast increase in traffic and long lights along with a traffic jam. The problem is too many vehicles. The solution is not more roads. Oahu built more roads. Turn on the 5 o'clock news and see five to six lanes in both direction jammed or moving slowly. Accidents and mishaps close the pali. The new bypass only shifts traffic mauka. Often the entrance ramps are jammed waiting to get on the bypass to creep along to Olowalu.
A serious problem calls for a serious solution. Those in charge should consider ways to limit the number on Maui. Some suggestions are for every car in one must go off. This should apply to all users, including all rental cars and all dealers. Raise registration rates on second and third, etc., high enough to discourage extra vehicles. Harsh, yes. The alternative is more cars, more traffic, more frustration and a lot less aloha.
Two asides: One, every one has the right to drive the speed limit without hassle. Second, if you get lost on Maui the rule is to go downhill. And take along common sense, which seems to be in short supply.
David Dahlby
Wailuku