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Council approves purchase authorization for 1.72 acres in Lahaina to support roadway, evacuation and infrastructure planning
Summary
Maui County Council authorized the acquisition of 1.724 acres across multiple parcels in Lahaina for up to $1.95 million to support a roadway extension, potential bus infrastructure and to reserve space for relocation of a Hawaiian Electric substation, citing unique site value and evacuation planning needs.
The Maui County Council on July 8 adopted a resolution authorizing acquisition of 1.724 acres in Lahaina across nine parcels for up to $1,950,000, exclusive of closing costs. The council acted after a committee discussion that cited transportation, evacuation and long‑term infrastructure planning as reasons to secure the land.
Why it matters: committee members said the parcels support a Kahuna Street and Dickerson Street roadway extension project intended to improve connectivity and evacuation access in Lahaina; the site was also described as a potential relocation area for a Hawaiian Electric substation whose current location conflicts with future road alignment.
Appraisal and purchase terms
Public Works Director Molina told the committee that the formal appraisal was $1,540,000 — roughly $410,000 below the asking price — but emphasized the scarcity of suitable parcels in Lahaina and potential public benefits from securing this site now. Possible future uses discussed included bus infrastructure, a drop‑box recycling center, and community serving uses depending on zoning and available acreage.
Council action
The council discharged the item from committee and then adopted the resolution following a brief discussion. The motion to adopt passed unanimously.
Next steps and context
If the acquisition proceeds, county staff will complete closing and then coordinate planning work to determine the parcels' specific public uses consistent with zoning and community input. Committee members framed the purchase as a preemptive step to secure land needed for evacuation access and future county infrastructure in a part of Lahaina where suitable public parcels are limited.
Ending note
Officials described the acquisition as an investment in infrastructure and evacuation planning; the appraisal and asking‑price difference highlight negotiation and budget choices the county may face during closing.
