End of Aliʻi Drive Pilot Project Signals Return to Two-Way Traffic with Enhanced Parking Solutions

End of Aliʻi Drive Pilot Project Signals Return to
Two-Way Traffic with Enhanced Parking Solutions

Following a trial period of more than 30 days for the one-way traffic pattern on Aliʻi Drive, the County of Hawaiʻi will revert back to the original two-way traffic configuration while simultaneously implementing enhanced parking solutions to improve accessibility and convenience for the community.

“We sincerely thank West Hawaiʻi for their invaluable feedback during this Aliʻi Drive pilot project,” said County of Hawaiʻi Mayor Kimo Alameda. “Recently, Big Island Now conducted a poll that garnered over 2,700 responses, and it was clear that many favored returning the traffic pattern to its original two-way flow.” Mayor Alameda further added, “We truly appreciate everyone’s patience and input throughout this process. The pilot project and insights we gathered have led us to explore new innovative solutions for our community. We are excited to implement these changes to enhance the experience for all.”

The following improvements have been put in place or are currently being explored:
1. Reduced Private Parking Fees: Parklinq Corporation has agreed to revise its parking fees to provide more affordable options for users in and around Kailua Village.
2. Diagonal Parking Stalls off Kuakini Hwy: Utilizing head-in diagonal parking stalls above Coconut Grove Marketplace, along Kuakini Highway, will help maximize space allowing for upwards of 10 additional vehicles to park in the area.
3. Public Parking at Hale Hālāwai County Facility: The Hale Hālāwai facility on Aliʻi Drive could offer additional stalls for public use on days and times when they are not reserved for events.
4. Potential Hotel Partnerships: Discussions are ongoing with one or more area hotels to establish partnerships that would offer additional parking opportunities.
5. New Parking Lease Opportunities: The County is actively negotiating with a landowner off Aliʻi Drive to lease a parcel that could open an additional 100 new parking stalls.

Council Member for District 7, Rebecca Villegas, expressed her support for these changes, stating, “Big Mahalo to Mayor Alameda and his team for taking action and working diligently to provide more free public parking in Kailua Village. I’m grateful for this Administrations courage, initiative, followed up, flexibility and willingness to return to the two-way traffic flow. In the process, other potential solutions have presented themselves. That’s a win for our Village and our community.”

Julie Ziemelis from the “Fix Paid Parking in Kona” Group shared, “We would like to thank the Mayor for listening to our group’s ideas for solutions. It’s a vexing issue and we appreciate the fact that the one-way traffic idea was attempted, as it brought thousands of eyeballs to the fact that quick solutions are needed to help save the businesses that have been adversely affected by paid parking. We are encouraged by the Mayor’s efforts to look at our other solutions. Thanks to the Mayor and his staff for taking on this challenge to help our local community.”

The Department of Public Works will install message boards and signs to announce the upcoming change in the traffic pattern on Aliʻi Drive. This will ensure that both residents and visitors are well-informed about the transition. The reinstatement of the two-way traffic pattern will begin to take effect no later than Monday, June 16, 2025, allowing for a smooth return to the original configuration.

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