Vision Zero underscores Kaua‘i’s commitment to safe, equitable streets

Published on August 27, 2025

LĪHU‘E – The County of Kaua‘i, in partnership with the Hawai‘i State Department of Health, announces the launch of Vision Zero Hawai‘i, a statewide public service announcement campaign highlighting Hawai‘i’s commitment to eliminating all traffic fatalities and serious injuries. As part of this campaign, the County continues to collaborate with national, state, and community partners to advance Vision Zero. PSAs will air on TV, radio, digital platforms, print media, and in malls statewide through August.

With traffic deaths on Hawai‘i roads increasing by more than 50 percent in 2025 compared to this time last year, the campaign serves as a timely call to action. On Kaua‘i alone, three lives have already been lost in traffic-related incidents this year, a sobering reminder of the urgent need for safer streets. Residents have witnessed the tragic consequences of unsafe roads firsthand. Vision Zero emphasizes that safety is a shared responsibility so that everyone, whether walking in Līhu‘e or biking in Hanapēpē, can travel with confidence.

“We know the heartbreak that comes when lives are lost on our roadways, and we are determined to prevent more families from experiencing that pain,” said Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami. “Vision Zero is more than a campaign, it’s a long-term commitment to redesigning our roads, improving safety for everyone, and building communities where people can get where they need to go without fear. From Hanalei to Waimea, we are working to make our streets safer for all.”

Staying active is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, yet most adults and youth in Hawai‘i do not meet federal physical activity guidelines. “Physical inactivity is a major contributor to chronic disease, and walking, biking, and rolling are ways to promote daily movement, especially for keiki and kūpuna,” said Lola Irvin, DOH Chronic Disease Prevention & Health Promotion Division Administrator. “Creating safe, convenient, and connected routes to everyday destinations like grocery stores, schools, and parks helps Hawai‘i residents stay physically active.”

The public can support Vision Zero by encouraging safer street designs in their neighborhoods, being responsible and attentive road users, participating in planning meetings that promote safer roads, and supporting legislation that prioritizes walking and biking safety.

Kaua‘i County is currently developing its Safety Action Plan to achieve the goal of eliminating traffic deaths by 2040. More information about the project will be shared soon. For updates and resources, visit VisionZero.Hawaii.gov.

###