Big Island Now poll: What is solution to parking woes on Ali‘i Drive in Kailua-Kona?

It’s been 18 days since the start of a 90-day trial run that turned a portion of touristy Ali‘i Drive in Kailua-Kona into a one-way street to create more free parking spaces.

Hawai‘i County Mayor Kimo Alameda implemented the trial, in which a new traffic pattern has created 46 parking spots but also traffic issues with a bottleneck occurring at the intersection of Hualālai Road and Kuakini Highway.

Cyclists have taken to social media saying the one-way pattern doesn’t consider their safety. Businesses operating on the new one-way stretch also are claiming to see less foot traffic.

Alameda is trying to address the concerns of locals and tourists that parking in the Historic District of Kailua Village has become obscenely expensive, with hourly rates ranging from $10 to $21.

He recently told Big Island Now he is a man of action and he wants to fix the problem, but his hands are tied to a degree because the paid parking lots are owned by private land owners. However, the mayor said he is determined to find a solution that doesn’t result in unintended consequences.

Big Island Now wants your opinion on the best solution. And if you have an idea that hasn’t been brought up publicly, let us know.

The deadline to complete the poll is May 29. Results will be published on June 1.