04-19-2016, 03:19 PM
The county has two primary means to construct new roads; using Federal Highway Administration funds, or floating bonds. Hawaii County receives about 18% of the 160 million dollar yearly FHWA allotment. One major highway project can tie up the county's share of the FHWA funds for several years (i.e Ane K. Highway Phase 3). The county's bonding capacity is nearing the recommended ceiling of 15%, so in a way the county's ability to construct new roads is a bit hamstrung unless a new revenue source is found. If this isn't found, expect more traffic congestion.