MAKIKI-LOWER PUNCHBOWL-TANTALUS NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD NO. 10
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
THURSDAY, JANUARY 15, 2026 AT 6:00 P.M.
MAKIKI DISTRICT PARK (OLD MAKIKI COMMUNITY LIBRARY, 2ND FLOOR)
1527 KE’EAUMOKU STREET, HONOLULU, HI 96822 (https://maps.app.goo.gl/tn2vhKmnhhBafkJy5)
AND ONLINE VIA WEBEX
Meeting Link: https://cchnl.webex.com/cchnl/j.php?MTID=mf66d21b6ef825a3d0e117ed0856d527b
Meeting Number / Access Code: 2500 575 4786
Password: NB10 (6210 from phones and video systems)
Join by Phone: +1-408-418-9388 (United States Toll)
Meeting Recordings: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfqRwVpRrookChkQxjZlnB_r8en78zV4Q
Meeting Materials: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1su4uYFuTVRMZYxBlR8WnaR0cDMcjbHjE
Purpose: §2-13-101 [Neighborhood Plan of 2008, City Charter] “Purpose. The purpose of this neighborhood plan and the neighborhood boards is to increase and assure effective citizen participation in the decisions of government.”
Community Vision Statement: “A safe and healthy community with a lei of parks connected by roads, sidewalks, and public transportation; where daily life is not interrupted by loud vehicles and other obnoxious noises; where all community members are valued, including the least fortunate; and where residents are proud to live.”
Rules of Speaking and Notes: Anyone wishing to speak is asked to raise their hand. When recognized by the Chair, address comments to the Chair. Speakers are encouraged to keep their comments under 3 minutes, and those giving reports are urged to keep their reports under 3 minutes. Please silence all electronic devices. The Board may take action on any agenda item. As required by the State Sunshine Law (HRS 92), specific issues not noted on this agenda cannot be voted on, unless added to the agenda. A two-thirds (2/3) vote of this 17-member Board is needed to add an item to the agenda. No item shall be added to the agenda if it is of reasonably major importance and action thereon by the board will affect a significant number of persons.
Description of Board Boundaries: https://www8.honolulu.gov/nco/boards-and-sub-district-boundary-descriptions
Subscribe to Receive Neighborhood Board Meeting Agendas via Email: https://www8.honolulu.gov/nco/newsletter-subscription
Subscribe to Receive City News Updates via Email: https://www.honolulu.gov/mayor/newsletter-signup
Neighborhood Plan §2-14-116 Disclosure
(a) Any board member who knows he or she has a personal or private interest, direct or indirect, in any proposal before the board shall disclose the interest either orally or in writing to the board. The disclosure shall also be made a matter of public record before the board takes any action on the proposal.
(b) A member who makes any disclosure shall not be disqualified from participation in the discussion or vote on the matter. A member may choose to be recused. A recused member shall not participate in the discussion or vote.
1. CALL TO ORDER – Chair Nathan Char (nathanielchar@gmail.com)
2. ROLL CALL – Neighborhood Assistant Curtis Hayashi (curtis.hayashi@honolulu.gov)
3. HONOLULU FIRE DEPARTMENT (HFD) (HFDNHB@honolulu.gov)
4. HONOLULU POLICE DEPARTMENT (HPD) (https://www.honolulupd.org/contact-us)
5. CHAIR CHAR’S REPORT
6. STATE OFFICIAL REPORTS (Limited to 3 minutes each)
Find Your State Legislator: https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/fyl
A. Governor Josh Green’s Representative – Russell Pang (russell.wk.pang@hawaii.gov)
B. State Senator Carol Fukunaga (District 11) (senfukunaga@capitol.hawaii.gov)
C. State Representative Della Au Belatti (District 26) (repbelatti@capitol.hawaii.gov)
D. State Representative Kim Coco Iwamoto (District 25) (repiwamoto@capitol.hawaii.gov)
E. State Representative Ikaika Olds (District 23) (repolds@capitol.hawaii.gov)
F. State Representative Andrew Garrett (District 22) (repgarrett@capitol.hawaii.gov)
G. Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) – Micah Kahiwa (info@oha.org)
7. CITY REPORTS (Limited to 3 minutes each)
A. Board of Water Supply (BWS) – Michele Harman (contactus@hbws.org)
B. Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative (https://www8.honolulu.gov/mayor/newsletter) – Megan Johnson (https://www8.honolulu.gov/mayor/contact-the-mayor)
C. Councilmember Scott Nishimoto (District 5) – Taylor Date
(https://www.honolulucitycouncil.org/district-5-scott-nishimoto)
D. Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam (District 6) – Robin Henski
(https://www.honolulucitycouncil.org/district-6-dos-santos-tam)
8. COMMUNITY CONCERNS FROM RESIDENTS (Limited to 2 minutes each)
Residents, not board members, can share comments and concerns that are not listed on the agenda. Per the “Sunshine Law” (HRS 92), concerns not on the agenda may be presented, but the Board cannot take action.
Report City Issues on HNL 311: Use the new HNL 311 website (HNL311.com) and mobile app to report city issues. The mobile app is available on the Apple App Store and Google Play. The HNL 311 mobile app lets users report issues, manage service requests and receive notifications, all from their smartphone — anytime, anywhere.
9. BOARD BUSINESS/PRESENTATIONS
A. Filling One Vacant At-Large Seat: Interested residents must bring current proof of residency to the board meeting or contact Neighborhood Assistant Curtis Hayashi (curtis.hayashi@honolulu.gov) to verify residency before the meeting.
B. Approval of Written Summaries for Video Record: Thursday, October 16, 2025 and Thursday, November 20, 2025 (Draft Written Summaries: https://www4.honolulu.gov/docushare/dsweb/View/Collection-11258)
C. Exceptional Tree Program Presentation – Myles Ritchie
D. Discussion on Honolulu City Council Legislation: Bill 7 (Ordinance 19-8 Relating to Affordable Rental Housing), Bill 53 (2025) Relating to Affordable Housing, and Bill 72 (2025) Relating to Affordable Rental Housing (https://hnldoc.ehawaii.gov/hnldoc)
10. BOARD/COMMUNITY REPORTS (Limited to 3 minutes each)
A. Nice Neighborhoods Committee – Harris Nakamoto (junfour@gmail.com)
Committee Agendas: https://www4.honolulu.gov/docushare/dsweb/View/Collection-12764
B. O‘ahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO) – Adam Kirchmann (adamkirchmann@gmail.com)
Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC): https://oahumpo.org/citizen-advisory-committee
11. BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
Next Regular Meeting: The Makiki/Lower Punchbowl/Tantalus Neighborhood Board No. 10 is scheduled to meet on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at Makiki District Park (Old Makiki Community Library, 2nd Floor) and online via Webex.
Broadcast, Social Media, and Board Info: The meetings can be viewed on ʻŌlelo FOCUS 49 on the first Friday at 9:00 p.m. and third Sunday at 3:00 p.m. (https://olelo.org/tune-in). Follow us at http://www.facebook.com/MakikiNB and visit https://www8.honolulu.gov/nco/nb10 for Makiki Neighborhood Board info.
12. ADJOURNMENT
A mailing list is maintained for interested persons and agencies to receive this board’s agenda and minutes. Additions, corrections, and deletions to the mailing list may be directed to the Neighborhood Commission Office (NCO) at Kapālama Hale, 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Suite 160, Honolulu, HI 96817, by telephone on (808) 768-3710, fax (808) 768-3711, or emailing nco@honolulu.gov. Agenda, documents, minutes are also available online: https://www.honolulu.gov/nco/boards.
All written testimony must be received in the Neighborhood Commission Office 48 hours prior to the meeting. If within 48 hours of the meeting, written and/or oral testimony may be submitted directly to the Board at the meeting. If submitting written testimony, please note the Board and agenda item(s) your testimony concerns. Send to: Neighborhood Commission Office, 925 Dillingham Boulevard, Suite 160, Honolulu, HI 96817, fax (808) 768-3711, email nbtestimony@honolulu.gov, or complete the form on https://www8.honolulu.gov/nco/testimony.
If you need an auxiliary aid/service or other accommodation due to a disability or an interpreter for a language other than English, please call the Neighborhood Commission Office at (808) 768-3710 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. or send an email to nco@honolulu.gov as soon as possible, preferably at least three (3) business days before the scheduled meeting. If a request is received with fewer than three (3) business days remaining before the meeting, we will try to obtain the auxiliary aid/service or accommodation, but it may not be possible to fulfill requests received after this date.
DRAFT REGULAR MEETING WRITTEN SUMMARY FOR VIDEO RECORD
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2025 AT 6:00 P.M.
MAKIKI DISTRICT PARK (OLD MAKIKI COMMUNITY LIBRARY, 2ND FLOOR) – 1527 KE’EAUMOKU STREET, HONOLULU, HI 96822 AND ONLINE VIA WEBEX
Meeting Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M2vmr6KumBk&list=PLfqRwVpRrookChkQxjZlnB_r8en78zV4Q
Meeting Materials: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1su4uYFuTVRMZYxBlR8WnaR0cDMcjbHjE
1. CALL TO ORDER – [0:00:02]: Chair Nathaniel Char called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Chair Char disclosed that he is running for office and may recuse himself from items that present conflicts of interest. He requested that Neighborhood Assistant Curtis Hayashi note this disclosure in the minutes according to the Neighborhood Plan.
2. ROLL CALL – [0:00:39]: Neighborhood Assistant Hayashi conducted roll call. Quorum was established with 12 members present. This 17-member Board requires nine members to establish quorum and to take Board action.
Members Present: Nathaniel Char (Chair), John Steelquist (Vice Chair), Bronson Silva (Secretary), Nancy Depicolzuane (joined at 6:04 p.m.), Adam Kirchmann, Arthur Eberhardt, Kimberley Gallant, Amanda Kirby, Chuck Lee, Sam Mitchell, Harris Nakamoto, Robert Peters, and Kahanu Chan.
Members Absent: Janvier Witham (Treasurer), Linda Dela Cruz, Eric Salassa, and Richard Kawano.
Guests: Fire Captain Daniel Goh and Firefighter Keola Hanohano-Hong (Honolulu Fire Department); Sergeant Brian Morris (Honolulu Police Department); Deputy Director Megan Johnson (Mayor Blangiardi); Taylor Date (Councilmember Nishimoto); Robin Henski (Councilmember Dos Santos-Tam); Russell Pang (Governor Green); Kate Ozawa (Representative Iwamoto); Director Roger Morton, Chief Traffic Engineer Kelly Akasaki, and Complete Streets Administrator Renee Espiau (Department of Transportation Services); Kirra Downing (Chick-fil-A); Tom Heinrich, Richard Ching, Claire Santos, Michele Luke, Ian Ross, Christian Chambers, Deborah “Debbie” Uemura, Chris Kanazawa, and Michelle Alves (Residents/Guests); Curtis Hayashi (Neighborhood Commission Office). Names were not included if not legible or stated for the record. About 53 participants joined the meeting.
3. HONOLULU FIRE DEPARTMENT (HFD) – [0:01:44]: Fire Captain Goh introduced Firefighter Hong who presented the October 2025 incident statistics. HFD reported one structure fire, 20 activated alarms, 123 medical calls, 20 motor vehicle crashes, and two motor vehicle collisions with pedestrians. The fire safety tip for the month focused on cooking safety. Food brings family and friends together especially during the holidays, but cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires and injuries. HFD advised staying alert while cooking, avoiding cooking if sleepy or after consuming alcohol, staying in the kitchen while cooking, never leaving the stove unattended, using timers, keeping combustible items away from the stovetop, and keeping children and pets at least three feet away from cooking areas.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qKlq6hiSR0PVuR8dVC-lRxH-INl12fUC/view
Member Depicolzuane joined the meeting at 6:04 p.m.; 13 members present.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:03:27]:
1. Repeated Fire Alarm at 1427 Ernest Street: Richard Ching reported another fire alarm incident at 1427 Ernest Street that continued all night despite HFD response. Captain Goh explained that the last alarm was caused by someone barbecuing next to a smoke detector. HFD reset the system with the building representative and instructed her to notify the fire alarm company. Ching expressed gratitude that there is now someone on site to address issues and asked about holding the owner accountable. Captain Goh noted the representative is a resident who stepped up and suggested working with the building owner or property manager.
2. Object Identification: Member Depicolzuane presented an object for identification. After examination by HFD and HPD, the object was determined not to be a bullet and appeared to be a battery or battery part.
3. HPD Appreciation: Member Depicolzuane thanked HPD for their work and mentioned their concerted efforts around neighborhood areas such as Tipsy Pig. She acknowledged that while the situation has improved, HPD has been ramping up their efforts on traffic fatalities.
4. HONOLULU POLICE DEPARTMENT (HPD) – [0:08:52]: Sergeant Morris presented October 2025 statistics. Motor vehicle thefts were 10 this month compared to 8 previously. Burglaries were 6 this month compared to 5 previously. Thefts were 30 compared to 31 previously. Unauthorized entry to motor vehicles remained at 2. Assaults remained at 11. Sex assaults were 0. Graffiti was 1 compared to 0 previously. Drug cases were 4 this month compared to 5 previously. Motor vehicle crashes increased significantly to 111 compared to 79 the month before, though none were fatalities or critical accidents. HPD responded to 2,147 cases for the month compared to 2,051 previously. Sergeant Morris distributed community surveys for feedback on HPD performance (https://www.honolulupd.org/hpd-seeks-community-feedback-to-enhance-public-safety-services). 911 is the proper way to request emergency services rather than calling substations or officers directly, as dispatch can ask appropriate questions and provide information to responders en route.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:13:55]:
1. Thomas Square Parade Traffic: Member Eberhardt asked about traffic controls for the November 29th parade around Thomas Square and noted that Ward to King does not allow left turns, making it impossible to circle Thomas Square. Sergeant Morris stated he would check with command and try to arrange for community policing or recruit officers to handle traffic control. The parade starts at 6:00 p.m., and trolleys will operate around Thomas Square.
2. Five-Way Intersection Traffic Enforcement: Claire Santos asked about enforcement at the five-way intersection. She reported seeing HPD monitoring the area at 11:00 a.m. and ticketing violators. Sergeant Morris confirmed he issued a couple of tickets and continues checking the intersection, noting HPD is doing their best to enforce complete stops.
3. Drug Activity at 1427 Ernest Street: Richard Ching reported numerous incidents at 1427 Ernest Street including a party with 10 cars parked on the street. HPD responded and dispersed them. Ching described ongoing drug activity and mentioned he has the license plate number of a suspected drug dealer who receives many tickets but never moves his vehicle. Sergeant Morris explained that narcotics officers work undercover and may be investigating without visible presence. HPD can arrange for expired vehicle towing and will continue enforcement.
4. Construction Parking Issues on Alapai Street: Claire Santos reported new construction on the short section of Alapai Street where construction workers park illegally in wrong directions and on private property with no trespassing signs. Sergeant Morris acknowledged the issue and asked Santos to call when violations occur so HPD can respond. He will also check the area and try to speak with construction workers about parking issues.
5. CITY REPORTS – [0:22:23]
Board of Water Supply – [0:22:29]: Michelle Harman reported six main breaks for October 2025.The general water announcement for November focused on main breaks. When a main break occurs, the Board of Water Supply works quickly to reduce impact to customers, protect public safety, and restore service. For updates on main breaks and information about pipes 4 inches or larger and how repairs are made, visit www.boardofwatersupply.com/mainbreaks. Updates are also available on Facebook and Nextdoor. For larger, more impactful main breaks, sign up for HNL Alert.
Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s Representative – [0:24:26]: Deputy Director Megan Johnson submitted a written report with responses to questions raised at the October 2025 meeting. She highlighted items from the November 2025 newsletter. Skyline segment 2 opened for service, adding five miles and four new stations including Pearl Harbor and Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. The City’s early education center is relocating as multi-year repairs begin for the municipal parking structure. New sewer rates will go into effect on January 1, 2026 for Oahu residents.
• Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1G-SgXe7npoc0Lrakd2x4QrX-4JC33PDJ/view
• Newsletter: https://www.honolulu.gov/mayor/newsletter
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:25:30]:
1. Rail Ridership Statistics: Member Gallant asked for updates on rail ridership. Director Roger Morton from the Department of Transportation Services (DTS) responded that since Skyline opened, ridership has been running between 10,500 to 10,800 per day. Starting this week, it jumped to about 11,500, attributed to the government reopening and federal workers returning to work.
2. Punahou Square Dog Park Size: Chair Char shared concerns that the off-leash dog park at Punahou Square is too small. There is a giant tree in the middle of the space with large roots creating a large area that cannot be safely walked around, cutting down on usable space. Deputy Director Johnson stated she will share that feedback with the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR).
Councilmember Scott Nishimoto – [0:28:30]: Taylor Date announced a community cleanup with DPR on December 6th at Pawaaina Park from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Community members are welcome to join.
• Webpage: https://www.honolulucitycouncil.org/district-5-scott-nishimoto
Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam – [0:29:40]: Robin Henski shared the November newsletter. A constituent request was submitted on November 7th regarding Dole Community Park where the field is browning. A service request was submitted to DPR and maintenance will seed the area and irrigate it so the area will be watered and grow grass.
• Webpage: https://www.honolulucitycouncil.org/district-6-dos-santos-tam
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:30:47]:
1. Makiki District Park Field Condition: Chair Char asked if the same could be done for Makiki District Park as the field is more than half dead. Henski agreed to submit that request as well.
2. Irrigation System at Makiki District Park: Member Kirchmann noted that last time this was brought up, the parks department stated the irrigation system was working properly, but many people have come forward saying that is not the case. He requested that the parks department take a better look at the irrigation system.
3. Bill 72 Affordable Housing Discussion: Member Lee asked if Councilmember Dos Santos-Tam could attend the January 2026 meeting to share more information about Bill 72 regarding affordable housing, preferably in person.
4. Nuuanu Pali Drive Cleanup Follow-Up: Member Depicolzuane asked about a cleanup done on Nuuanu Pali Drive in August or early September where the entire mountainside under the guardrails was garbage going into the stream. She asked if there was follow-up on the issue.
Governor Josh Green’s Representative – [0:35:05]: Russell Pang reported on graffiti cleanup along the H-1 freeway. This past Saturday morning between 3:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., the State Department of Transportation closed several lanes on the H-1 between Ward Avenue overpass and Ernest Street to conduct graffiti removal. Crews will return this Saturday morning during the same hours to shut down a couple westbound lanes between Ward Avenue overpass and Ernest Street for additional graffiti removal. Residents who see graffiti along the H-1 should contact Pang for assessment and crew deployment. Pang also discussed crash responder safety week, designed to remind motorists of Hawaii’s move over law. Drivers are required to slow down and move over when seeing an accident with police or tow trucks attending. Last year, 20 police officers and two ambulance workers were injured responding to crashes.
• Newsletter: https://governor.hawaii.gov/newsletter
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:38:02]:
1. Ward Avenue and Lunalilo Street Intersection Update: Chair Char asked about updates on Ward Avenue and Lunalilo Street intersection improvements. Pang explained that engineers are examining the area. There are space availability issues and concerns about positioning the left-turn light signal. Engineers are also looking at the left turn onto H-1 eastbound. Regarding repaving of the Ward overpass and Keeaumoku overpass, Pang does not have a date yet but it is in the books. He hopes to have better news in the new year.
2. Roundtop Drive Repaving: Richard Ching asked when Roundtop Drive will be repaved. Pang clarified that Roundtop Drive falls under City’s jurisdiction.
6. BOARD BUSINESS – [0:41:35]
Approval of Written Summary for Video Record: Thursday, September 18, 2025 – [0:41:42]: Chair Char asked for corrections to the written summary. Member Mitchell asked Kate Ozawa, Representative Kim Coco Iwamoto’s representative, regarding the State House District 26 redistricting. Chair Char thanked Member Mitchell for sharing the concern. Secretary Silva MOVED and Lee SECONDED to approve the written summary as written. Hearing no objections or abstentions, the written summary was approved; 12-0-0 (Aye: Chan, Char, Eberhardt, Kawano, Kirby, Kirchmann, Lee, Mitchell, Nakamoto, Peters, Silva, and Steelquist; Nay: None; Abstain: None).
Motion to Support the Hurt 100 Trail Run – [0:44:37]: Marian Yasuda presented information about the 26th running of the Hurt 100 trail run. The race starts on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at 6:00 a.m. and finishes on Sunday, January 18, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. About 130 participants run five loops of Tantalus, 20 miles each loop, starting at Makiki Nature Center. The course is 99% on trails, going up to the top of Tantalus, down to Manoa to Paradise Park for the first aid station, then to Nuuanu for the second aid station, then returning to Makiki Nature Center. The organization is mindful of impact on neighbors, especially at aid stations, and minimizes impact by managing parking. At Makiki Nature Center, they partner with Halau Ku Mana Public Charter School, make a donation, and use two parking lots with help from students and parents managing parking during the 36-hour race. In Manoa, they pay Paradise Park to use part of their parking area and generously allow family and friends of runners to pay $7 for a weekend pass to come and go all weekend. At Nuuanu, because it is narrow with no room, no parking is allowed, and they provide a shuttle service for volunteers only. No family or friends can go to the Nuuanu aid station. Yasuda requested the Board’s support for the event in January 2026. Chair Char MOVED and Vice Chair Steelquist SECONDED to support the Hurt 100 trail run. Without objection, the motion was ADOPTED; 12-0-0 (Aye: Chan, Char, Eberhardt, Kawano, Kirby, Kirchmann, Lee, Mitchell, Nakamoto, Peters, Silva, Steelquist; Nay: None; Abstain: None) – [0:48:58].
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:48:21]:
1. Race Frequency: Member Gallant asked if the race is every year or every other year. Yasuda confirmed it is every year.
Vote on a Resolution Urging the City and County of Honolulu to Study and Address Traffic and Safety Issues on Beretania Street near Chick-fil-A Makiki – [0:49:04]: Chair Char explained that in reviewing the minutes from the September special meeting written by Silva, he realized there should have been nine votes required to pass the resolution, not eight, which means the resolution should have passed. He called for a roll call vote. Silva MOVED and Char SECONDED to adopt the resolution urging the City and County of Honolulu to study and address traffic and safety issues on Beretania Street near Chick-fil-A Makiki. The motion was ADOPTED; 12-0-1 (Aye: Chan, Char, Eberhardt, Kirby, Kirchmann, Lee, Mitchell, Nakamoto, Peters, Silva, Steelquist, Witham; Nay: Gallant; Abstain: None) – [0:51:12].
Discussion of Traffic Safety Issues in Neighborhood – [0:51:34]: Chair Char welcomed DTS Director Roger Morton, Chief Traffic Engineer Kelly Akasaki, and Complete Streets Administrator Renee Espiau.
Five-Way Intersection of Iolani Street, Alapai Street, and Prospect Street – [0:52:53]: Chief Traffic Engineer Akasaki reported that since the five-way intersection was installed in December 2023, there have been no major recorded incidents or crashes in HPD records. This does not mean there are no close calls or minor accidents. The difference between minor and major accidents is that minor accidents under $3,000 only have name, insurance, and address information with no details about the accident, movement, responsibility, or witnesses. Major crashes include all that information plus diagrams and photos. There have been no major crashes since installation. DTS and HPD are monitoring the area.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [0:54:37]:
1. Chronic Danger at Five-Way Intersection: Claire Santos raised safety concerns about the five-way intersection. Santos asked for a solution and stated that the five-way stop signs are not sufficient.
2. Five-Way Intersection Constraints: Akasaki explained that given the geometry, geometrics, grades, and angles of the five legs, it is difficult to put any other type of definitive traffic control there. The space is not big enough for a roundabout. There are no sidewalks. Other than a five-leg traffic signal, which would be hard to synchronize because the legs come down in the same direction, there is no other solution besides the all-way stop. Akasaki is open to recommendations.
3. Closing One Leg to Create Four-Way Intersection: Vice Chair Steelquist suggested closing one of the five lanes to make it a four-way stop. Akasaki confirmed that would require total reconstruction and taking of land, meaning condemning properties that are not city-owned and redesigning the area. That is an option that can be done but will be costly and take time. There is new construction on one corner, but it would still require taking property and funding.
4. Traffic Calming Feature: Ian Ross noted that DTS and Councilmember Dos Santos-Tam did a good job engaging the community a few years ago. There was discussion about forcing cars to curve as they drive to prevent head-on collisions and speeding. Akasaki explained that because the area is limited in size with no sidewalks, putting in a 5-foot round circle would move cars further toward properties, taking away sidewalk space for pedestrians. If the curbs are for pedestrians and pedestrians cannot walk and cross, that is not a solution that helps pedestrians. It would help with head-ons and speeding but would require taking more property to provide pedestrian space.
5. Pedestrian-Activated Flashing Beacons: Chair Char suggested lights activated by pressing a button to indicate pedestrians are present, similar to Queen Street and Kamakee Street. Akasaki explained these are called rectangular rapid flashing beacons. With five legs, DTS would need to study which way the flashing lights would be placed. They typically install them on the minor street with the crosswalk. All approaches are now stop-controlled, so technically all must stop for pedestrians. Chair Char suggested examining Prospect Street as the main thoroughfare for the study.
6. Flashing Stop Signs: Santos mentioned seeing stop signs in Oregon with flashing lights triggered as vehicles approach. Akasaki confirmed those are solar-powered flashing lights that flash all day. DTS has yield signs and stop signs that flash and could install that. They are typically solar-powered and charge during the day. DTS will look into that.
7. Pedestrian Safety Concerns Nationally: Director Morton noted the department has done a tremendous job reducing people killed in cars from 1970 to today. However, pedestrian incident rates have almost doubled in the last 10 years. This is why DTS emphasizes pedestrians as vulnerable roadway users. This is a national concern.
8. Crosswalk Removals: Member Mitchell raised concerns about the removal of marked crosswalks. Director Morton explained crosswalks were taken away mid-block because national studies showed high numbers of pedestrian injuries at mid-block crosswalks. The recommendation is not to remove them but to make them safer through additional features beyond painted lines, such as rectangular rapid flashing beacons and yellow pedestrian signs. On multi-lane arterial roads where traffic is faster and kupuna do not move fast, people get a false sense of confidence and may only get halfway across before being hit. DTS is looking at additional safety features to crosswalks.
9. Safety Enhancements: Akasaki added that DTS is not only removing crosswalks but also installing raised crosswalks, speed humps, and rapid flashing beacons. On School Street and Date Street, two new solar rapid flashing beacons were just installed. On Pensacola Street by McKinley High School, the State helped install four raised crosswalks. These are the kinds of features needed at multi-lane crossings without traffic signals. Complete Streets Administrator Espiau has a Safe Streets for All grant looking at 50 uncontrolled crosswalks with the same issues, installing solar rectangular rapid flashing beacons and quick-build delineators for bulbouts and shorter crossings similar to North King Street in Kalihi. DTS is trying to enhance crosswalks with available funding.
10. Speed Humps at Five-Way Intersection: Member Nakamoto suggested installing speed bumps approaching the intersection. Director Morton stated speed humps are good practice in some places. Akasaki explained speed humps could only be placed on the Ward Avenue side where it is flatter. Coming down from the Prospect side has a steep grade over 8%, and speed humps are not recommended where grades are steeper as vehicles coming down at high speed could use them as ramps. The only location would be toward Roosevelt High School direction where it is flatter between there and Ward Avenue, if the community supports it. There is a crosswalk at Emerson Street where a raised crosswalk could be considered. DTS also installed wider paved shoulders on Kamehameha IV Road in Kalihi, creating 4-5 feet of pedestrian space with curbing and delineators, which could be looked at for this area.
11. Comparison to Manoa Five-Way Intersection: Member Nakamoto asked about the difference between this intersection and the one in Manoa. Akasaki explained the Manoa Neighborhood Board also asked for a roundabout. That intersection, which is double the size, is still not big enough for a roundabout. Roundabouts are normally 20 feet wide in diameter, then require pushing everything out for the circumference and building sidewalks. Unless property from homes on corners is taken, a roundabout cannot fit at either location.
12. Rumble Strips: Member Kirchmann asked about rumble strips that make noise when crossing them. Akasaki explained nobody wants those near homes as they are very noisy and echo at night. They are usually on freeway off-ramps or in the countryside where there are not many homes nearby.
13. Traffic Using Neighborhood as Cut-Through: Member Kirchmann noted the neighborhood is becoming a means to escape traffic. Akasaki confirmed options include speed humps or raised crosswalks. DTS tried to slow traffic at Stevenson Middle School with bulbouts and pedestrian crossing signs painted by the school. DTS is willing to work with the community on ideas and will indicate if they are engineering-wise possible.
14. Pedestrian Scramble and Camera Enforcement: Michele Luke commented that the five-way intersection lacks room for a roundabout and said drivers often ignore the pedestrian-activated flashing white lights, suggesting red lights could work better. She asked if an all-way pedestrian scramble or camera enforcement might improve safety, since many drivers don’t stop properly or anticipate others. Officials explained that both options require full traffic signals, typically used only in dense areas like downtown or Waikiki, and that current law limits cameras to red-light and speeding violations at signalized intersections. When Luke asked about community funding, Akasaki said each signal costs about $1 million annually to operate and maintain, making it too costly for community support.
15. Vehicle-Triggered Flashing Stop Signs: Santos stated her community does not want speed humps or rumble strips. They did want a roundabout or bulbout but understands the space is tiny and odd-shaped. She requested vehicle or pedestrian-triggered flashing lights around stop signs, not constantly flashing. Akasaki stated DTS will look into vehicle-triggered flashing stop signs, which would likely require some type of technology product with a sensor in the roadway similar to traffic signal sensors that trigger the lights.
Traffic Congestion/Safety on South Beretania Street by Chick-fil-A Makiki – [1:19:41]: Director Morton acknowledged that traffic impacts from the Chick-fil-A on Beretania are a difficult and sensitive issue, especially for residents of the Queen Victoria condominium whose driveways are often blocked. He noted that city planning policies do not require detailed traffic analyses for fast food businesses occupying existing sites, which was the case when Chick-fil-A replaced Burger King. DTS has tried to mitigate problems by posting signs and communicating with the business, which added double drive-thru lanes to help with queuing. However, Morton emphasized that DTS does not have enforcement authority—issues like blocking driveways or excessive traffic must be handled by HPD or the Department of Planning and Permitting.
Chief Traffic Engineer Akasaki added that DTS has been meeting with Chick-fil-A for several years about the problem and permitted installation of a custom “Do Not Block Driveway” sign. Since Chick-fil-A’s layout did not change from Burger King’s, no traffic study was required. She mentioned that another Chick-fil-A is opening at Ala Moana with more limited access, which may ease demand. While congestion sometimes stacks up, it has not reached levels that impede bus or emergency traffic, making additional mitigation difficult.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:24:03]:
1. McDonald’s Parking Stall Removal: Tom Heinrich requested the removal of Sotuh Beretania Street parking between McDonald’s two driveways across the street from Chick-fil-A, one parking stall ends up blocking traffic lanes.
2. Multi-Party Meeting Request: Member Lee suggested that HPD, DPP, DTS, Chick-fil-A, and Queen Victoria representatives meet together to find a collaborative solution, noting that creative ideas from both sides could help resolve ongoing traffic issues. Director Morton agreed to help coordinate such a meeting but clarified that DPP’s role is limited since Chick-fil-A no longer needs additional permits unless it expands its property. He said DTS is open to working with HPD, which can address illegal parking and manage congestion during busy times or events. Morton added that Chick-fil-A already has multiple driveway warning signs, both official and store-purchased, and while DTS is unsure what more can be done physically at the site, the department remains willing to meet and explore solutions.
3. Traffic Management Plan Enforcement: Debbie said she has followed the project since the DPP permit was filed and noted that the approved traffic plan isn’t being followed, creating safety concerns unrelated to DTS. She emphasized she isn’t blaming Chick-fil-A but highlighted issues on Beretania Street, including nighttime parking that forces drive-thru queues into a traffic lane and the bike lane ending at Pensacola, requiring cyclists to merge into traffic. She framed these as broader public safety concerns, not just resident complaints. Director Morton said DTS is beginning roadway planning for Beretania and nearby corridors, with Complete Streets Administrator Espiau leading an urban roadway study. He added that while removing parking could help traffic flow, DTS must also consider the impact on nearby businesses, though the situation may need further review if queuing continues.
4. Parking on South Beretania Street: Debbie raised parking concerns nearby Chick-fil-A Makiki. There are parking stalls on the right side into the driveway past Dew Drop Inn which is supposed to support three small businesses in that area with eight parking stalls. She claims the problem is people do not want to use those stalls. Director Morton stated DTS can review street parking concerns, but there are competing demands from different parts of the community. DTS is planning to do major roadway planning on Beretania Street. DTS will start public outreach soon to figure out overall roadways. Beretania will require a full rehab, taking it down far to put pavement back. It will be a major thing with utilities under roadway surfacing. It will not happen for a few years, but planning will start soon.
5. Missing No Parking Signs: Member Kirby noted since June 2019, three no parking signs are missing on that corner in front of businesses where people cannot park between certain hours. Those were removed sometime between June 2019 and December 2024 and have not been replaced yet.
6. Nightly Safety Issues: Christian Chambers described safety issues near Queen Victoria Residences, where cars block the driveway and force people with strollers into the street, leading to accidents at night when lanes are congested. He said residents are unsure how to fix the problem but hope DTS will help, noting the Board’s resolution as a positive step. Chambers also expressed frustration that HPD often overlooks illegal parking in the area. Director Morton explained that DTS can request enhanced enforcement by sending a memorandum to the police chief, which typically prompts a response, though it is temporary. He added that DTS must clearly specify what actions HPD should take and why when making such requests.
7. Traffic Director and Traffic Management Plan: Lindsay Chambers suggested that Chick-fil-A’s traffic management plan be included in efforts to address local congestion. Chief Traffic Engineer Akasaki explained that enforcement of such plans is handled by the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP), not the Department of Transportation Services (DTS). While DTS cannot require compliance or enforce parking rules, it can work with Honolulu Police to increase enforcement or consider measures like banning parking between driveways to ease traffic, though that might affect nearby businesses. Akasaki stressed that DPP oversees plan compliance, while DTS focuses on traffic design and temporary control during construction.
8. Traffic Management Plan: Director Morton explained that DPP does enforcement around the community on many types of issues. DPP has inspectors who will send inspectors out to make sure if there is a document that requires enforcement. If there is an agreement that can be enforced, DPP will send inspectors to ascertain if the agreement is not being followed, then send a warning letter and escalate from that point similar to monster homes or other enforcement. DPP has inspectors, attorneys, and wherewithal to do enforcement. Member Kirchmann stated having gone through Chick-fil-A, knowing it opened to two lanes would definitely help traffic on the street, so it does not make sense why they would curtail the agreement they made unless being difficult for no reason.
9. Queen Victoria Resident Perspective: Chris Kanazawa from Queen Victoria thanked the Board for support in giving the city opportunity to investigate. He hopes it does not look like piling on Chick-fil-A because they want them to be a good neighbor. No one is asking them to shut down. All residents are asking for is what Chick-fil-A represented to them and in the traffic plan to be fulfilled. He appreciates working with the City and thinks it is an excellent idea getting all parties and stakeholders together because at the end of the day, what residents want is a resolution. They do not want to be contentious and understand DTS limitations but are trying to figure out how to make this work.
10. Honolulu Museum of Art Parking Arrangement: Member Eberhardt noted Chick-fil-A and Honolulu Museum of Art (HoMA) came up with an agreement for approximately 12 parking stalls in the HoMA parking area entered off Canal. Unfortunately, they do not tell customers about this arrangement with HoMA which began November 1st. When he checked with Chick-fil-A today about whether they use it, they said they do not know anything about it. When employees take phone calls for pickup that ends up on streets, they should tell customers to enter from Canal so they have that parking. Kirra Downing on behalf of Chick-fil-A responded that they recently got 10 stalls at the HoMA parking lot. They do not have access at Beretania right now. They are doing it for employees at this time. They have not publicly announced it. The goal would be to show good faith and work toward getting access from Beretania, then open it up. Right now, it is not for public use. They are working through details.
Kinau/Pensacola/South Beretania Street Traffic Congestion and Right-Hand Turn Lane – [1:47:51]: Chief Traffic Engineer Akasaki explained that DTS found there isn’t enough physical space to create a double right-turn lane from Kinau onto Pensacola because the turning radius is too tight for larger vehicles. She added that while they are also reviewing the possibility of a double right turn from Pensacola onto Beretania, current traffic levels don’t justify it, as the existing right-turn lane rarely backs up to Kinau. Director Morton then invited Complete Streets Administrator Espiau to share her perspective, noting her role and independence under multiple departments. Espiau emphasized that double turn lanes significantly increase pedestrian safety risks, as drivers often fail to yield to pedestrians even when they have the legal right-of-way. She noted that only locations with very heavy turning volumes, such as near Safeway or Queens, have separate signal phases for pedestrian protection. Espiau cautioned against pursuing double turns unless traffic benefits are clear and safety impacts are fully considered, pointing out that such changes require costly signal upgrades.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [1:52:33]:
1. Morning Congestion on Pensacola Street: Eberhardt, who lives at Pensacola and Victoria, described heavy congestion on Pensacola Street between 7:00 and 9:00 a.m., with drivers diverting down Victoria to reach King Street. He explained that freeway traffic funnels into a single right-turn lane at Kinau and Pensacola, forcing vehicles—especially large trucks—to merge immediately after turning, creating bottlenecks and gridlock. Akasaki responded that DTS plans to study the issue to determine whether better signal timing or added green light duration along King and Kapiolani might help reduce backups extending to Lunalilo. She noted that simply adding double right-turn lanes would likely not solve the problem. Eberhardt suggested exploring changes at Ward Avenue, where allowing left turns onto King Street might ease pressure on Pensacola. Akasaki agreed to include that in their ongoing review.
2. Pensacola Bike Lane: Member Kirchmann asked DTS to consider moving the Pensacola Street bike lane to restore parking for new buildings that lack sufficient spaces. Akasaki explained that the city is prioritizing multimodal transportation, encouraging biking and transit use over driving, and noted that new developments are required to include bike racks and storage but not minimum parking. Kirchmann observed that scooters, not bicycles, often use the lane in the wrong direction. Akasaki acknowledged construction disruptions from the Board of Water Supply’s project along Wilder to Roosevelt and said crews will replace delineators and restripe once work is complete. Director Morton confirmed the project involves a major watermain running from Roosevelt downhill along Pensacola.
Construction and Roadway Closures Along South King Street – [1:58:00]: Depicolzuane raised concerns about poor communication and lack of signage during recent repaving work near Palm Drive. She described how drivers, unaware of road closures, caused traffic backups and even an accident due to missing signs at one end of the street. After being told additional signage “wasn’t in the plan,” she had to escalate the issue herself to improve safety. She emphasized that unclear or outdated signage has been a recurring issue and that residents need better notice about projects. Akasaki apologized and acknowledged similar complaints, explaining the project is a quick resurfacing effort but that permanent striping and delineator installation are still pending. She encouraged residents to report issues directly to DTS for faster responses and noted they are pressing contractors to complete striping, particularly for bike lanes, as soon as possible. Akasaki provided her contact: Kelly Akasaki, 808-768-8320, or email kelly.akasaki@honolulu.gov.
South King Street Bike Lane Traffic Safety – [2:04:02]: Chair Char raised concerns about bike lane direction, noting complaints that lanes on King and Beretania Streets should match vehicle traffic flow. Director Morton confirmed the comments related to possible adjustments to the existing bikeway. Complete Streets Administrator Espiau said a major planning study, funded by a federal Safe Streets and Roads for All grant, will explore safety improvements for key Oahu corridors such as Wilder, Piikoi, Beretania, Young, King, Kaheka, and Kapiolani. She explained the study focuses on gathering public input rather than construction. Member Depicolzuane raised concerns about poor signage, and Espiau and Akasaki said efforts are underway to reposition signs near Tipsy Pig, Sakura, and the music store to improve safety.
Questions, comments, and concerns followed – [2:08:30]:
1. Sign Contact and 311 App: Tom Heinrich asked who residents should contact for signage issues, noting some already reach out to the Department of Facility Maintenance (DFM). Director Morton said the Department of Transportation Services (DTS) is the best first contact, since DFM handles repairs while DTS oversees new or changed signs. Akasaki noted that ending contraflow on Kapiolani and Ward Avenues has freed up crews to install signs more quickly. Member Kirchmann recommended the 311 app for reporting issues, and Morton confirmed those requests reach the proper department and reminded residents to call 911 for emergencies like downed signals.
2. Thomas Square Traffic Flow: Member Eberhardt asked if Director Morton could enlighten the Board on how traffic will flow around Thomas Square for the Christmas lighting. Director Morton stated in all candor, that was not really something DTS recommended, and that is as far as he will go.
Chair Char thanked Director Morton, Engineer Akasaki, and Planner Espiau for attending.
7. COMMUNITY CONCERNS FROM RESIDENTS – [2:11:42]
1665 Piikoi Street Group Residence – [2:11:48]: Michelle Alvez raised concerns about frequent multi-agency law enforcement activity, safety concerns, and lack of on-site management since the large two-story blue house at 1665 Piikoi Street changed ownership in 2022.
1617 Alapai Bill 7 Affordable Housing Construction – [2:14:02]: Claire Santos stated the community of Kahale Moi condominiums and surrounding properties respectfully requests that the 1617 Alapai Bill 7 affordable housing construction be kept on the neighborhood board agenda. Demolition has been done. They do not have their construction permit yet. The community is still trying to head that off and get that building cut down to a respectful size.
1158 Lunalilo Street Property Issues – [2:14:29]: Ian Ross raised concerns about 1158 Lunalilo Street, including trespassing, drug use, fights, domestic violence, theft, utilities theft, and a recent fire risk. Residents indicated that demolition permit action may be pending and requested expedited processing and interim site security.
8. BOARD/COMMUNITY REPORTS – [2:16:22]
Nice Neighborhoods Committee: No report
Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO) – [2:16:28]: The OMPO meeting is scheduled for December 3rd. The November meeting was canceled.
TUKAH (The United Korean Association of Hawaii) Kimchi Day at Makiki District Park – [2:16:45]: Chair Char announced Kimchi Day at Makiki District Park this coming Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. He hopes attendees can make it.
9. BOARD ANNOUNCEMENTS – [2:16:57]: The Makiki/Lower Punchbowl/Tantalus Neighborhood Board No. 10 is scheduled to recess in December 2025 and meet next on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at Makiki District Park (Old Makiki Community Library, 2nd Floor) and online via Webex. Meetings can be viewed on Olelo FOCUS 49 on the first Friday at 9:00 p.m. and the third Sunday at 3:00 p.m. at olelo.org/tune-in. Follow the Board at www.facebook.com/MakikiNB and visit www8.honolulu.gov/nco/nb10 for Makiki Neighborhood Board information.
10. ADJOURNMENT – [2:17:29]: Chair Char adjourned the meeting at 8:18 p.m.
Submitted by: Curtis Hayashi, Neighborhood Assistant, Neighborhood Commission Office
Reviewed by: Dylan Buck, Community Relations Specialist, Neighborhood Commission Office
Finalized by:
To view agenda and minutes, visit our board website.
Event shows physical location; however, other options of participation may also include WebEx and phone. If available, instructions for WebEx and phone can be found at the top of the agenda.