Office of Planning and Sustainable Development

Purpose

The State of Hawaii, Office of Planning and Sustainable Development (OPSD), gathers, analyzes, and provides information to the Governor to assist in the overall analysis and formulation of state policies and strategies. OPSD is tasked with:

(1) Providing central direction and cohesion in the allocation of resources and effectuation of state activities and programs, and

(2) Effectively addressing current or emerging issues and opportunities

OPSD is guided by two statewide planning documents, the Hawaii State Planning Act, which is a broad policy document that sets the table for all activities, programs, and decisions made by local and state agencies; and Engineering Hawaii’s Future.

Programs

The Office of Planning and Sustainable Development includes eight programs that work closely with local, state, and federal government agencies; the University of Hawaii; and various community stakeholders to achieve objectives.

Coastal Zone Management Program, the Environmental Review Program, the GIS Program, the Land Use Commission, the Land Use Division, the Statewide Sustainability Program, the Special Plans Branch, and the Transit Oriented Development Program.

Projects and Initiatives

Current projects and initiatives are focused on implementing OPSD’s mandates in relation to priorities that are laid out in Engineering Hawaii’s Future, including Planning for the impacts of climate change; Ensuring the sustainable and economic use of our ocean and coastal resources through partnership development with all sectors (Pacific Regional Planning Body); Supporting improved scientific and cultural knowledge to better manage our natural resources for current and future generations; Decreasing Hawaii’s dependence on imported food; and Coordinating the State’s participation in Transit-Oriented Development for affordable housing, educational facilities, and state services.