Question: I see a large portion of the rail elevated above old cane and pineapple fields. Why did the rail planners not build the rail on the ground to keep costs down, rather than elevated, which of course costs more due to concrete and engineering efforts? Most cities on the mainland build their rail systems on the ground when possible.
Answer: The design of Honolulu’s rail-transit system continues to be the subject of intense debate, as it has been since the project was first proposed. Cost was a major factor in the rail planners’ early considerations, but they also weighed safety and reliability concerns, which tipped the scales in favor of an elevated rail system.
According to the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, multiple studies were completed to evaluate what type of mass-transit system would best link Leeward Oahu with urban Honolulu. The elevated-rail design was selected because the research showed that such a system, separated from ground transportation, would be faster, safer and more reliable for on-time performance than alternatives built at ground level, according to HART.
“With elevated rail transit, the trains do not cross paths with cars or pedestrians at street level. As a result, trains don’t get in the way of pedestrians and motor vehicles, and the street-level traffic doesn’t interfere with the trains,” the HART website explains. “This avoids the possibility of collisions between trains and pedestrians or motor vehicles traveling at street level. Transit riders can be sure they will get to their destination on time, regardless of traffic conditions.”
Studies evaluating the feasibility of an underground transit system, which also would have avoided street-level traffic conflicts, found that an elevated-rail system would be cheaper to build, according to HART.
Q: I am worried about all the stuff my neighbors spray on their lawn and garden. It stinks, and I am afraid it could be affecting my health. Can I file a pesticide complaint?
A: Yes, such complaints are handled by the Pesticide Branch of the state Department of Agriculture’s Plant Industry Division. To file a complaint, contact the branch office in your district, which in this instance is Oahu; the number to call is 973-9401.
Be prepared to provide precise information, not express vague or generalized concerns. For the complaint, you’ll need to supply your name, address and phone number, and be able to describe pesticide-related incidents, including by date, time and location, according to the Ag Department’s website. An inspector will schedule a personal meeting to take your statement.
The branch advises that in non-urgent disputes involving neighbors, the parties involved should try to resolve the problem themselves first. “This will help to avoid any misunderstandings and possible ill feelings that commonly arise as a result of a formal complaint being filed,” according to the website.
For ongoing conflicts, the state Judiciary’s Center for Alternative Dispute Resolution may be able to help. You can find out more about the center online at 808ne.ws/1knS89X or by calling 539-4237.
You didn’t mention whether you have shared your concerns with your neighbors, including by asking what pesticides they are using and how often and in what quantities the products are being applied. Talking to them directly sounds like the best first step, based on the information you provided.
That said, you should not hesitate to act immediately in urgent situations, such as if you or others become sickened by pesticide fumes. In emergency cases involving ill health effects or potential evacuations, call 911 to alert the Fire and Police departments, according to the Pesticide Branch. Follow up with the branch afterward to file a complaint.
In non-urgent situations, your call should go to the Pesticide Branch, not 911 or any other emergency responder.
Auwe
The highly visible downtown post office parking lot is a disgrace! Some of the weeds nearly cover the parking meters, and there is endless trash in this historic spot. A thorough cleanup, including more trash cans, would be most appreciated. Let’s have some civic pride! Thank you. — Bob
Mahalo
In the past the Veterans Affairs’ report card has been poor. On Oct. 16 I had my first visit to the Spark M. Matsunaga VA Medical Center at Tripler Army Medical Center. My purpose was to get registered into their system. In so doing I had contact with three staff members. I feel obligated to note that each bent over backward to help me, and with smiles. When I commented about this to one of the ladies, her reply was, “I love to help vets.” Now that’s an A+ attitude. Ladies, thanks for making my day. — Roger Williams
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Write to “Kokua Line” at Honolulu Star-Advertiser, 7 Waterfront Plaza, Suite 210, 500 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu 96813; fax 529-4750; or email kokualine@staradvertiser.com.
