Posted on: Wednesday, December 17, 2003

EDITORIAL
We cannot afford to be caught off-guard

A delay in the widening of H-1 Freeway because of a nationwide steel shortage should serve as a warning to Hawai'i as we prepare for a major construction boom.

All this activity is exciting, but it could also turn into a logistical nightmare if we don't plan ahead.

The H-1 situation tells us we should be stocking up on construction materials. But we must also prepare our infrastructure. Our roads, schools and housing must accommodate a potential rise in job activity and population. And our work force must be up to speed on job and social skills.

Meanwhile, we must balance economic growth with stewardship of the unique and fragile natural environment that ranks Hawai'i among world-class vacation destinations.

It's a lot to juggle, but if we start preparing now, we won't be caught short.