The new executive director of a nonprofit transportation organization -- which seeks to use pathways, bikeways and sidewalks to connect people and places on the Big Island -- believes climate-friendly decisions made now can affect the future of transportation.
Jess Thompson has been executive director of People for Active Transportation Hawaii (PATH) since November 2020. Previously, Thompson was executive director at Oregon Walks, which similarly created “safe and accessible walking conditions in Oregon,” she told Big Island Times.
“I deeply believe that the futures of our children, grandchildren and (other) generations are dependent on the decisions we make collectively, to turn away from carbon-producing modes of transportation to modes of mobility that promote climate-friendly solutions, such as walking, biking and taking mass transit,” Thompson said. “Unfortunately, our current transportation system is designed around the single-occupancy vehicle. The current global transportation system is a major contributor to our global climate crisis.”
Because Hawaii Island’s current transportation system was designed for cars, there are few places for people to safely travel without using a car, Thompson said. PATH, which was founded in 1986, is seeking to remedy the problem. "We advocate for data-proven policies, infrastructure and programs that create safe and accessible places for people to get where they need to go without a single-occupancy vehicle."
“We want protected walkways and bikeways and a robust mass transit system that serves the people of Hawaii Island who are looking for affordable, climate-friendly transportation options that also promote physical health,” Thompson said.
Among projects that PATH is involved in include the Queens’ Lei, which, when completed, will be a 16.7-mile circulation loop for pedestrians and bicyclists, made of a shared-use pathway that connects all of North Kona, according to PATH’s website. PATH is seeking funding to improve four trailheads at Old Walua Road Bike & Pedestrian Scenic Route, which was the first multi-use pathway on the island of Hawaii. People of all ages can participate in the safety and skills-based bike and pedestrian programs that PATH offers.
“We coordinate Safe Routes to School program, Hawaii Island's HIBIKE bike-sharing program, co-facilitate the Mayor's Active Living Advisory Council and the Vision Zero task force,” Thompson said. “One of our oldest and most popular programs is the bike education safety classes we offer to fourth-grade classes around the entire island.”
PATH’s programs need the help of everyone “to create a greener, cleaner transportation system,” Thompson said. “This is work that benefits current and future generations.”