Waikoloa residents urge council for funding second evacuation road amid wildfire risks

In a pivotal meeting held in Hilo on April 8, 2025, the Hawaii County Special Committee on Finance addressed urgent community safety concerns regarding the need for a second evacuation road in Waikoloa Village. Residents voiced their fears about wildfire risks, particularly in light of recent devastating fires in Hawaii, including the tragic events in Lahaina.

Aslan Chalker, a resident of Waikoloa Village, shared a harrowing personal account of the 2021 Mana fire, emphasizing the critical need for a second road to ensure safe evacuation during emergencies. "It is not a matter of if, but when," Chalker stated, highlighting that Waikoloa has a wildfire risk 100% higher than any other place in the United States. Her plea for funding to support the construction of this road resonated deeply with the committee members.

Matthew Chalker, co-founder of Wildfire Safety Advocates of Waikoloa, echoed these sentiments, urging the council to allocate $2.5 million for engineering plans and design for the second road. He pointed out that the village has been recognized as a hazardous area for over two decades, yet progress has stalled. "We need to know how to get out of the village safely," he stressed, noting that the current evacuation routes are insufficient for the growing population.

Bob Yunki, representing the Wildfire Safety Advocates, reinforced the urgency of the situation, reminding the council that the need for a second road was identified as a high priority back in 2008. He urged the council to act swiftly to initiate the project, emphasizing that lives are at stake. "This is not just a hypothetical issue," he said, referencing the tragic outcomes seen in Lahaina.

Julia Allos, a long-time resident and community advocate, also spoke passionately about the need for action. She criticized the county for failing to follow through on commitments made in community development plans, stating that residents are left with "idle promises" and no concrete plans for a second road.

The testimonies from residents underscored a growing sense of urgency and frustration over the lack of action on this critical safety issue. The committee's discussions highlighted the need for immediate steps to secure funding and begin planning for the second road, which many residents believe is essential for their safety and well-being.

As the meeting concluded, the council members were left with a clear message: the community is counting on them to prioritize this project and take decisive action to protect the lives of Waikoloa residents. The call for a second evacuation road is not just about infrastructure; it is about ensuring the safety and security of families living in a high-risk area.