September 25, 2007
Hawaii Superferry Debate: Breaking Down the Kauai Numbers

By Shawn Lathrop

“According to the 2000 Census, there were 58,303 people living on Kauai. That number increased to 63,004 by 2006.

That’s an increase of 4,701 people in only 6 years. And that’s without the Superferry. And do you think those people are walking everywhere?

I doubt it since there are 4 auto dealers on Kauai with an estimated stock of at least 50 vehicles each.

That’s at least 200 vehicles that could be sold and driven on Kauai’s fragile roads at any time. And let’s not forget the 11 car rental offices on Kauai that service the selfish visitors that invade Kauai every day.

And of course we need to include the airlines that Kauai residents are OK with.

Go! airlines has at least 20 flights a day going to Kauai, Hawaiian Airlines has at least 97 and Aloha Airlines flies into Kauai about 37 times a day.

And keep in mind that these flight can carry upwards of 100 or more passengers each.”