Every day, our community in Honolulu faces a significant risk. Public servants, military personnel, children and parents heading to daycare, and other members of the public rely on the crosswalk at Punchbowl Street and Pohukaina Street leading to 300 Ala Moana (the Federal Building/Federal Courthouse/Rainbow School) in this bustling area, yet the lack of a pedestrian walk light and/or traffic light creates a hazardous situation. I've witnessed firsthand the danger posed as vehicles routinely ignore the pedestrian crosswalk, putting lives in jeopardy.

The current situation at the crosswalk on Punchbowl and Pohukaina is untenable and calls for immediate action. The absence of a dedicated pedestrian walk light means that both pedestrians and drivers are unsure of when it is safe to cross or stop. This uncertainty has led to numerous accidents and many near-misses, and has created an environment where more accidents are not just possible but likely unless we make changes.

Statistics show that intersections with clearly marked pedestrian signals can decrease accidents by up to 40%. This is not just a statistics game – it's about protecting our community members who use this crosswalk daily. Imagine a parent holding their child's hand, trying to cross safely; a public servant heading to work to serve our community; a military member just trying to get to work; or, a citizen trying to get to the Social Security office. These are real people whose safety is at stake each time they step into that crosswalk.

We propose the installation of a pedestrian walk light at Punchbowl and Pohukaina to ensure their safety. With a simple yet effective measure, we can transform this crosswalk into a safe passage for everyone. It is an actionable solution that requires prompt attention and funding, yet promises lasting benefits for public safety.

We urge the local authorities to prioritize this issue and fast-track the implementation of a pedestrian walk light at Punchbowl and Pohukaina. This is a community issue, and it needs a community-driven solution. By signing this petition, you are voicing your support for safer streets and showing that you stand with your fellow community members in demanding change.

Sign the petition now to help bring a pedestrian walk light to Punchbowl and Pohukaina and make our streets safer for everyone.