Noise control efforts in Waikiki are underway

HONOLULU (KHON2) — Known for its surf and sand, Waikiki is increasingly becoming synonymous with another less desirable feature: noise, a problem residents say is worsening.

“We’ve developed a group of people who love to put aftermarket mufflers on their vehicles and roar up and down the street and groups that love to set off out-of-season fireworks,” said Bob Finley, chair of the Waikiki Neighborhood Board. “I think if you look around you right now, you’ll see why noise is an issue. Concrete. Everything bounces.”

“People aren’t able to sleep because of the noise. People can’t enjoy their dinner because of the noise,” said Honolulu Council Chair Tommy Waters. “So, yes, it is a quality-of-life issue.”

Several legislative attempts in the past to address loud noise have failed due to enforcement challenges.

The neighborhood board has partnered with Honolulu police to raise awareness of the current noise law as a first step toward mitigating noise.

“Every meeting of the neighborhood board for the past year, we’ve complained about vehicle noise. That’s them taking steps to try to slow it down,” Finley added.

“The fact that there are signs out there is a really good thing, and I’m glad that people are taking this seriously,” Waters remarked.

Under current law, violators can face fines. A loud muffler can lead to a $72 fine, while excessive noise audible from 30 feet away on the road can result in a $100 fine. Noise disturbances on the beach or street are also enforceable.

State lawmakers recently approved $2.5 million for a pilot program using sound-detecting cameras with microphones to crack down on illegal noise on roads. Residents are cautiously optimistic about the initiative.

“It doesn’t bother me. I love it. There’s always stuff to do, but I know there are some older people who live, like, in my building. I’m sure it bothers them,” said Waikiki resident Matt Mayfield.

Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news

The Hawaii Department of Transportation has two years to implement the program, which could potentially expand to other urban areas statewide if successful.