News & Insights
Stay informed with the latest updates from the front lines of our advocacy efforts. Here you'll find expert analysis, community spotlights, media coverage, and updates on our advocacy work. Explore our letters to lawmakers, success stories, and practical resources to help you protect your community.
County Adds Pull-Offs to Waikōloa’s Hulu Street Evacuation Route
Wildfire Safety Advocates is excited to share a big safety improvement for Waikōloa. After raising concerns about the Hulu Street Evacuation Route, the County of Hawaiʻi quickly added new pull-offs to make the road safer for our community during wildfire evacuations.
Using Drones and Science to Tackle Wildfire Risk in Waikōloa
The Wildfire Safety Advocates team is launching a groundbreaking drone mapping project to fight wildfire risk in Waikōloa. Using multispectral cameras & 3D modeling, we'll identify fire fuel hotspots & create a digital twin for emergency planning. This open-data initiative aims to create a global model for community-led resilience.
Why We Are Challenging HECO's Wildfire Mitigation Plan
After a thorough review of the plan HECO submitted in January 2025, the Wildfire Safety Advocates of Waikoloa (WSAW) has filed formal comments with the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) urging them not to approve it. We believe this plan fails our community and the spirit of the law.
Advocacy in Action: Engaging the Department of Water Supply on Critical Safety Issues
WSAW met with Hawaii County Department of Water Supply to advance emergency evacuation routes & resilient water solutions for wildfires. Read about the progress on utility road access & solar power for wells.
A Historic Leap Forward: County Council Approves $2.5M for Waikoloa's Second Road
Hawaii County Council approves $2.5M to design Waikoloa's second access road, a historic first step after 17 years of advocacy. Read about the community's major victory for wildfire safety.
The Data is Clear: A Second Road for Waikoloa Village is a Prudent, Life-Saving Investment
Data proves Waikoloa's 2nd road is a vital investment. Our actuarial report shows a $27.5M cost is dwarfed by the value of lives saved, using USDOT & Lahaina settlement data. Preventing just 2 fatalities justifies the project. Read the expert analysis.
Our Water Supply in a Fire: A Sobering Look at Waikoloa's Critical Vulnerability
A WSAW report reveals Waikoloa's water supply is vulnerable during outages, with only a 48-hour backup for 50% of wells. Learn the risks and how community action is critical for fire safety.
Two Decades of Waiting: Our Urgent Call for a Second Access Road for Waikōloa Village
WSAW urges Mayor Alameda to fund Waikoloa's second access road, a "very high priority" since 2008. With the highest wildfire risk in the US, the community cannot wait any longer for a safe evacuation route.
A Crucial Step Forward: WSAW's Meeting with Newly Elected County of Hawaiʻi Mayor, Dr. Kimo Alameda
Get the latest update on Waikoloa's second access road! Read our summary of the decisive December 2024 meeting with Mayor Alameda, outlining the action plan for an emergency route by 2025 and a permanent arterial road by 2027. Learn how you can help.