Makakilo Infrastructure Upgrade Proposal Could Signal Shift in Development Viability
Community-led initiatives to establish a new emergency access road in Makakilo are gaining momentum, potentially impacting the long-term development landscape and emergency response times for residents and businesses in the area. While the proposal is in its early stages, its progression could influence property accessibility and economic feasibility in the region.
The Change
Residents of the Makakilo neighborhood are once again advocating for the construction of an emergency access road within their community. This push follows previous efforts and highlights ongoing concerns regarding limited ingress and egress, particularly during emergencies. The specific alignment, funding, and construction timeline for such a road remain undefined, signifying that this is currently a proposal under community and potentially future county consideration.
Who's Affected
Real Estate Owners:
The development of a new access road could significantly enhance the desirability and utility of properties in Makakilo. For property owners and developers, improved infrastructure often correlates with increased property values and opens avenues for new development permits. The feasibility of current and future zoning changes could also be influenced by enhanced accessibility, potentially making previously less-attractive parcels more viable. Landlords and property managers may see increased demand for rental properties, though this could also lead to upward pressure on rental rates.
Small Business Operators:
For small business operators in Makakilo, such as restaurant owners, retail shops, and service businesses, improved emergency access could have several implications. Primarily, it could lead to quicker response times from emergency services, mitigating risks associated with fire, medical emergencies, or natural disasters that could disrupt operations or cause property damage. Faster delivery times for supplies and the ability for customers to access premises more readily, especially during a crisis, could also improve operational efficiency and reduce operating costs associated with disruptions. However, any potential increase in property values could eventually translate to higher lease rates or property taxes, impacting overall operating costs.
Second-Order Effects
The successful implementation of an emergency access road in Makakilo, a growing residential area, could initiate a ripple effect on the island's constrained infrastructure and housing market. Enhanced accessibility in Makakilo, beyond just emergency services, could also encourage further residential development, potentially increasing the local labor pool. This influx of workers could, in turn, temper wage growth for existing small businesses in the region due to greater labor supply. Conversely, if road improvements strain existing water or power infrastructure, operational costs for businesses could rise, or development could be further constrained by utility limitations. Furthermore, if increased demand for services and goods arises from a growing population, tourism operator competition for resources like food and energy might intensify, driving up local prices for everyone.
What to Do
Real Estate Owners:
Monitor discussions and potential proposals related to the Makakilo access road. Track announcements from the Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting and the City Council regarding infrastructure projects in the Makakilo area. If concrete plans begin to emerge, reassess your property's potential for development or increased valuation. Consider consulting with local planning experts regarding zoning and permitting implications.
Small Business Operators:
Stay informed about any news regarding the progress of the access road initiative. While direct impacts are not immediate, an improved infrastructure could indirectly affect your business environment over time. Note any shifts in local real estate trends or community development plans that might arise from such infrastructure improvements. If emergency access is a significant concern for your business continuity planning, incorporate this potential development into your risk assessment.
