Bicycling advocates praised a city proposal yesterday to build a Young Street Bikeway between Thomas Square and Moiliili Field. Young Street bike path
plan wins praiseStar-Bulletin staff
"This corridor will provide a safe passage for bicyclists while reducing traffic, reducing pollution and improving the livability of our community," said Randy Ching, treasurer for the Oahu Group of the Sierra Club.
The Sierra Club and Hawaii Bicycling League said they support the initiative, due to be presented last night to the Makiki Neighborhood Board.
Mayor Jeremy Harris included $3.5 million in his budget proposal for the first phase of the project, from Thomas Square to Keeaumoku Street. The budget is subject to approval by the City Council.
City consultant Belt Collins produced six options for the route, from a bicycle-and-pedestrian-only route to one mixing bicycles, cars and parking.
"Enhanced cycling on Young Street will make commuting by bicycle safer and appealing to more people," said John Kelley, Hawaii Bicycling League president. "With King Street and Beretania carrying the majority of the cross-town vehicular traffic, Young Street has the potential to be a quieter, friendlier oasis while remaining the active business center it is today," Kelly said. Young runs parallel to and between South King and Beretania streets.