Residents debate DOT plan for traffic light at Kolo Road and Kuhio Highway; roundabout, speed reduction among alternatives

Yoshito L’Hote opened discussion on a state Department of Transportation plan to install a traffic signal at the intersection of Kolo Road and Kuhio Highway during the KNA meeting. Members and residents voiced multiple concerns: one question framed the debate — "What happens if the light doesn’t solve the traffic problem or makes it worse?" Participants suggested alternatives including a roundabout (noting it can take five to 10 years to plan and is expensive), lowering speed limits on the approach through Kilauea, and relocating the main town entrance several hundred yards west of Kolo Road. Some Kolo Road residents said they feared a light would increase traffic past their homes as drivers detour to avoid congestion.

The group discussed short- and long-term strategies: installing a temporary or permanent light while continuing to plan and budget for a future roundabout, or requiring future developers to fund a roundabout. L’Hote recommended requesting a copy of the DOT traffic study for Kilauea so the association can better understand the specific problem the signal is intended to solve. No formal motion on the DOT proposal was recorded at the meeting.