City Council Reviews Advertising Proposal for Public Transit

The Honolulu City Council is currently considering Bill 59, a proposed ordinance that could permit advertising on the exterior of TheBus vehicles and Skyline trains. This move marks a significant shift in the city's approach to transit funding and has sparked debate between supporters and opponents of the measure.

Addressing a Significant Transit Funding Shortfall

Honolulu's public transit system, comprising buses, Skyline trains, and Handi-Vans, operates with an annual budget exceeding $475 million. Despite this sizable investment, the system generates only about $50 million in revenue each year, leaving a substantial funding gap. Bill 59 aims to address this transit funding shortfall by allowing the city to sell ad space on transit vehicles, potentially generating as much as $6 million annually.

Supporters Present the Case for Transit Advertising

Proponents of the bill, including representatives from various local organizations, argue that transit advertising is a practical solution to raise additional funds without burdening residents with higher fares or added taxes. Joe Kent, executive vice president of the Grassroot Institute of Hawaii, noted, "It’s better than raising taxes. If you can save a few million dollars by putting an advertisement on a City bus like they do all over the country, it seems like a no-brainer for me." He described the idea as smart and questioned why it had not been previously considered.

Opposition Highlights Impact on Scenic Beauty

Not everyone welcomes the prospect of honolulu transit advertising. The Outdoor Circle, a local advocacy group, voiced strong opposition, emphasizing concerns about the impact of rolling billboards on Hawaii’s scenic beauty. Winston Welch, executive director of The Outdoor Circle, criticized the bill, saying, "What has changed is that this bill is even more egregious. It would add in the Handi-Vans and the Skyline, as well. So, you’re looking at potentially literally thousands of billboards roaming through every neighborhood in Honolulu." Welch highlighted the unavoidable nature of such ads and their potential as a distraction for motorists and pedestrians alike.

Bill 59: The Legislative Process and Public Engagement

Bill 59 honolulu recently passed its first reading at the City Council and remains in the early stages of consideration. Councilmember Radiant Cordero, who introduced the bill, stressed the importance of community input before any decisions are finalized. "I’m really not trying to steamroll this. I really value the feedback that we’re going to get," she stated. Cordero anticipates holding two public input meetings to gather feedback and develop responsible standards for transit advertising, as well as to explore possible revenue sources.

Looking Ahead: Timeline and Next Steps

The City Council plans to organize public input meetings in late November or early December. The process will provide residents and stakeholders an opportunity to weigh in on the potential for bus advertising and skyline train ads, and on how these initiatives could help alleviate the city’s transit funding challenges. As Bill 59 moves forward in the legislative process, the council remains committed to balancing opportunities for increased public transit revenue with concerns for community standards and Hawaii’s unique character.

Source: khon2.com.