Waikōloa Village Evacuation Traffic Study public meeting scheduled early next month

Hawai‘i County is hosting a public meeting for the launch of the Waikōloa Village Evacuation Traffic Study.

The meeting is scheduled for 5-7 p.m. Jan. 9, 2026, at the Waikōloa Village Association Golf Banquet Room, located at 68-1792 Melia St., in Waikōloa.

It’s an opportunity for residents to provide input and learn about the federally funded study, which is intended to mitigate the risk of harm to people and property in fire-vulnerable Waikōloa Village area.

“The Mana Road fire evacuation in 2021 highlighted the need to take a deep look at existing evacuation plans,” said Hawai‘i County Mayor Kimo Alameda in an announcement about the meeting. “This study will provide important data for improving our emergency response and meeting the needs of our people, especially those who are most vulnerable.”

To be conducted by KLD Associates under contract with Hawai‘i County Civil Defense, the study will look at the existing street network, including the primary evacuation routes of Waikōloa Road and Hulu Street emergency route, but also consider future needs.

“We asked the consultant to consider the impact of the significant growth that’s expected in the area’s population so we can make good decisions for the future of Waikōloa Village,” said Hawai‘i County Civil Defense Administrator Talmadge Magno in the meeting announcement. “We hope residents will come out to the meeting to help ensure that the study includes their input.”