Living and working in West Oʻahu, I have seen firsthand the lack of accessible and structured fitness spaces for the community. Areas such as Kapolei, ʻEwa, Nānākuli, and Waiʻanae continue to grow, yet there are no publicly accessible track facilities available to residents. While some schools have tracks, they are generally not open to the public, limiting access to safe and consistent places for exercise.

This is not just a recreation issue—it is a public health concern. Hawaiʻi continues to face high rates of obesity and chronic disease, and communities on the Westside are especially impacted by limited access to fitness infrastructure. Without proper facilities, many residents are left to use uneven or unstructured open spaces, or run along sidewalks and roadways, which can be unsafe and inconsistent for training.

Cost is also a barrier. With the already high cost of living in Hawaiʻi, many residents cannot afford gym memberships. A free, public track would provide an accessible option for individuals and families who want to improve their health without additional financial burden.

Access to a public track would directly support healthier lifestyles and provide a safe, structured environment for walking, running, and fitness training. It would also serve an important role in workforce readiness. Individuals preparing for careers in law enforcement, such as the Honolulu Police Department, or those seeking to join the military must meet physical fitness and body composition standards. A public track would provide a reliable space for training and preparation, helping address both health and recruitment challenges.

Kapolei should serve as a leading example for West Oʻahu in developing infrastructure that supports community wellness. Parks such as Kapolei Regional Park, as well as areas in Kalaeloa and Makakilo, already have open space that could be better utilized. These areas are often underused outside of scheduled sports activities and present an opportunity to develop a cost-effective, high-impact improvement for the community.

We are calling on the City & County of Honolulu to prioritize the development of a public track facility in West Oʻahu. This facility should be designed for practical daily use, including lighting for early morning and evening access, and consideration of shaded or covered sections to protect users from sun exposure.

By signing this petition, you are supporting a practical and necessary step toward improving the health, safety, and quality of life for West Oʻahu communities.