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.
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.
Waikoloa Village Hulu Evacuation Route – August 2, 2025
Waikoloa residents drove the Hulu emergency evacuation route in a community familiarization event. Read our recap and see video of the drive to understand this critical preparedness step for wildfire season.
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.
One Year of Action: Building a More Fire-Resilient Waikoloa
In one year, Wildfire Safety Advocates of Waikoloa (WSAW) has mobilized the community, driven policy for a second evacuation road, & built expert partnerships for fire resilience. See our key achievements.
A Critical Step Forward, But Our Work is Not Done
Hawaiʻi Public Radio reports on Waikoloa's rapid population growth and the critical fire safety concerns it raises, including inadequate evacuation routes as stated by the County Mayor, Mitch Roth. Learn about the risks and needed actions.
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.
Taking Matters Into Our Own Hands: Community-Led Fire Prevention is Both Inspiring and a Sign of Systemic Failure
A Civil Beat report reveals how HI communities, facing inadequate state support, are leading their own wildfire prevention through volunteer efforts and grants. Learn about the challenges and need for action.
Growth and Risk: Why Waikoloa's Expanding Population Demands Urgent Action
Hawaiʻi Public Radio reports on Waikoloa's rapid population growth and the critical fire safety concerns it raises, including inadequate evacuation routes as stated by the County Fire Marshal. Learn about the risks and needed actions.
Mapping Our Escape: New State Report Exposes Critical Gaps in Hawaii's Evacuation Plans
A HI-EMA report reveals Hawaii's wildfire evacuation plans lack critical signage, public education & route assessments. Learn the gaps and needed actions for community safety.