Hawaii state law has the admirable goal of protecting the state’s cultural heritage as it manifests in architecture and other sites. But extensive reviews at the State Historic Preservation Division also delay much-needed new projects, especially housing.
State historic review data and finds the average project experiences a wait time of 94 days. Meanwhile, the vast majority of projects reviewed by the division are determined to have no effect on historic resources.
The law that says the State Historic Preservation Division must review any property that is over 50 years old. Because many of Hawaii’s structures were built in the construction boom of the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s, the State Historic Preservation Division is facing a growing number of projects that could be subject to its review.
Given Hawaii’s massive housing shortage, it is crucial to streamline the bureaucratic process that holds up permits.
By reducing the number of properties subject to historic reviews, the process for obtaining permits would be expedited, helping to address the state’s housing shortage more quickly.
The change could help create a more balanced approach, allowing for development in areas with less historical significance while still preserving genuinely important cultural and historic landmarks.
