Lahaina Needs Evacuation Routes – Please Create a West Maui Greenway
As a West Maui resident, we need an emergency declaration designating the cane haul roads as official evacuation routes for Lahaina. This is seriously important for fire, tsunami, and other potential disaster situations. Using the cane haul roads should also help tie the community together through a West Maui Greenway. Personally, my family and I are anxious about easily accessible evacuation routes. The only real route is the highway. Cane roads should be opened as an alternative. Adding a West Maui Greenway Project can help alleviate safety concerns and contributes to broader goals, such as supporting climate change mitigation, emergency preparedness, and helping grow our economy.
Now is an opportune time to seek assistance from FEMA and Army Corps of Engineer to pave the remaining sections of the cane haul roads. These roads can also be utilized for the transportation of debris, providing an additional benefit in disaster response efforts. We need to be prepared and have an emergency route plan now, especially with the upcoming fire season and the potential for other natural disasters. Please take proactive measures to safeguard our community.
Please prioritize this urgent matter and take immediate action to designate cane haul roads as official evacuation routes for Lahaina. Paving and opening these roads to the public will protect property, people’s lives, and our environment.
We need the cane roads paved and open
West maui needs the bypass completed to Kaanapali and the rod thru Lahaina open
We have one road and too much traffic
Urgent Call to Action for Lahaina's Safety! 🔥
Honorable Council Members,
I am urging the County Council to issue an emergency declaration designating cane haul roads as official evacuation routes for Lahaina. This is crucial following the recent fire tragedy that claimed 100 lives and caused extensive damage to our community.
Key Points:
• Loss of lives and property highlights the need for designated evacuation routes.
• Cane haul roads are historically significant and crucial for evacuation during emergencies.
• Recent wildfire emphasized the urgent need for alternative evacuation routes.
• Cane haul roads, if unlocked and declared as evacuation routes, can provide immediate safety measures.
• Collaboration with authorities and advocates is essential for aligning plans and raising community awareness.
• Seeking assistance from FEMA and Army Corps of Engineers for paving cane haul roads is crucial for disaster response efforts.
In conclusion, I urge the Council to prioritize this matter for the safety and resilience of our community.
Testimony on Urgent Need for Emergency Evacuation Routes in Lahaina
Honorable Chair and Council Members,
I am writing on behalf of our community to urgently request that the County Council issue an emergency declaration designating the cane haul roads as official evacuation routes for Lahaina. This declaration is of paramount importance in light of the recent Lahaina fire and its devastating impact on our community.
The loss of lives, totaling 100, along with significant damage to properties and businesses, has left a profound scar on our community and inflicted severe economic losses on Maui's economy. These losses could have been mitigated had we had designated evacuation routes and utilized the cane haul roads as a fire barrier during the recent wildfire.
Preserving Lahaina's Legacy: The Role of Cane Haul Roads in Emergency Evacuation
1. Historical Significance: Cane haul roads have a deep historical connection to the sugar plantation era in Lahaina, playing a vital role in the region's economic development.
2. Geographical Vulnerability: Lahaina's geographical location makes it susceptible to hazards like the Winds of Kauaula, known for creating fire hazards. Loss of the sugar cane cover crop has changed fire dynamics, necessitating adaptation and planning for potential wildfires.
3. Lessons from Lahaina's Recent Wildfire: The recent Lahaina wildfire emphasized the urgent need for alternative evacuation routes as existing road systems faced challenges meeting sudden evacuation demands.
4. Role of Cane Haul Roads During the Fire: Residents attempted to use Lahaina's dirt cane haul roads during the wildfire but found them locked, requiring police intervention to unlock them, showcasing their potential as emergency evacuation paths.
5. Community Trauma and Emotional Impact: Residents experienced trauma during the wildfire, with some trapped in traffic jams as the fire approached. Established evacuation routes can alleviate anxiety and provide a sense of security during future events.
6. Proactive Measures for Safety: Cane haul roads, already in existence, provide an immediate infrastructure base for evacuation route development. Proactively unlocking and declaring these roads as evacuation routes is a practical and immediate step towards community safety.
7. Opportunities for Immediate Action: Government intervention to unlock existing cane haul roads can serve as an immediate and tangible step, aligning with ongoing Lahaina Wildfire Relief efforts and demonstrating a commitment to learning from recent disasters.
8. Economic and Environmental Benefits: The West Maui Greenway Project addresses safety concerns and contributes to broader goals, supporting climate change mitigation, emergency preparedness, and creating a sustainable and resilient community.
9. Collaboration with Authorities and Advocates: Collaboration with local authorities and community advocates ensures alignment with existing plans and regulations, while community awareness campaigns inform residents about designated evacuation routes and the importance of cane haul roads.
10. Seeking Assistance from FEMA and Army Corps of Engineers: Given the presence of FEMA and the Army Corps of Engineers in the area, this presents a unique opportunity to seek their assistance in paving the remaining sections of the cane haul roads. These roads can also be utilized for the transportation of debris, providing an additional benefit in disaster response efforts. Let's not wait 10-20 years to pave these roads; we need to be prepared and have an emergency route plan now, especially with the upcoming fire season and the potential for other natural disasters. Let's learn from this experience and take proactive measures to safeguard our community.
11. This coverage sheds light on the significance of WMG as an evacuation route during emergencies.
This coverage sheds light on the significance of WMG as an evacuation route during emergencies.
• Could West Maui’s Old Cane Haul Road Have Helped More People Escape the Fire?" (Civil Beat, Oct 2023)
https://www.civilbeat.org/2023/10/could-west-mauis-old-cane-haul-road-have-helped-more-people-escape-the-fire/
• Harrowing Eyewitness Accounts Cast Doubt on Official Lahaina Fire Narrative (Civil Beat, Oct 2023)
https://www.civilbeat.org/?p=1592654&utm_source=Civil+Beat+Master+List&utm_campaign=ac7a804a63-
• Community advocates say Maui's old Cane Haul Road could have helped more people escape Lahaina Fires (Hawaii News Now, Oct 2023)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CM81Nao0PQ
The West Maui Transportation Access Plan is mandated by Act 214 discussed Cane Haul Roads as emergency alternative routes.
https://hidot.hawaii.gov/administration/files/2013/01/west-maui-trans-access-plan.pdf
- The segment of Honoapiilani Highway between Olowalu and Kaanapali is laced with cane haul roads which access the lands mauka of the highway. While these roads were intended to service the sugar plantation operations, these cane haul roads also serve as emergency alternate routes in the event of road closures occurring within this segment of Honoapiilani Highway.
In conclusion, I urge the Council to prioritize this urgent matter and take immediate action to designate cane haul roads as official evacuation routes for Lahaina. This step is crucial for the safety, security, and resilience of our community, and it aligns with our shared goal of protecting lives, properties, and our environment.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Saman Dias
Community Leader (Maui Bicycling League and WMG Chair)
West Maui Resident
99 Kahan Nui Rd
Testimony on Urgent Need for Emergency Evacuation Routes in Lahaina
Honorable Chair and Council Members,
I am writing on behalf of our community to urgently request that the County Council issue an emergency declaration designating the cane haul roads as official evacuation routes for Lahaina. This declaration is of paramount importance in light of the recent Lahaina fire and its devastating impact on our community.
The loss of lives, totaling 100, along with significant damage to properties and businesses, has left a profound scar on our community and inflicted severe economic losses on Maui's economy. These losses could have been mitigated had we had designated evacuation routes and utilized the cane haul roads as a fire barrier during the recent wildfire.
Preserving Lahaina's Legacy: The Role of Cane Haul Roads in Emergency Evacuation
1. Historical Significance: Cane haul roads have a deep historical connection to the sugar plantation era in Lahaina, playing a vital role in the region's economic development.
2. Geographical Vulnerability: Lahaina's geographical location makes it susceptible to hazards like the Winds of Kauaula, known for creating fire hazards. Loss of the sugar cane cover crop has changed fire dynamics, necessitating adaptation and planning for potential wildfires.
3. Lessons from Lahaina's Recent Wildfire: The recent Lahaina wildfire emphasized the urgent need for alternative evacuation routes as existing road systems faced challenges meeting sudden evacuation demands.
4. Role of Cane Haul Roads During the Fire: Residents attempted to use Lahaina's dirt cane haul roads during the wildfire but found them locked, requiring police intervention to unlock them, showcasing their potential as emergency evacuation paths.
5. Community Trauma and Emotional Impact: Residents experienced trauma during the wildfire, with some trapped in traffic jams as the fire approached. Established evacuation routes can alleviate anxiety and provide a sense of security during future events.
6. Proactive Measures for Safety: Cane haul roads, already in existence, provide an immediate infrastructure base for evacuation route development. Proactively unlocking and declaring these roads as evacuation routes is a practical and immediate step towards community safety.
7. Opportunities for Immediate Action: Government intervention to unlock existing cane haul roads can serve as an immediate and tangible step, aligning with ongoing Lahaina Wildfire Relief efforts and demonstrating a commitment to learning from recent disasters.
8. Economic and Environmental Benefits: The West Maui Greenway Project addresses safety concerns and contributes to broader goals, supporting climate change mitigation, emergency preparedness, and creating a sustainable and resilient community.
9. Collaboration with Authorities and Advocates: Collaboration with local authorities and community advocates ensures alignment with existing plans and regulations, while community awareness campaigns inform residents about designated evacuation routes and the importance of cane haul roads.
10. Seeking Assistance from FEMA and Army Corps of Engineers: Given the presence of FEMA and the Army Corps of Engineers in the area, this presents a unique opportunity to seek their assistance in paving the remaining sections of the cane haul roads. These roads can also be utilized for the transportation of debris, providing an additional benefit in disaster response efforts. Let's not wait 10-20 years to pave these roads; we need to be prepared and have an emergency route plan now, especially with the upcoming fire season and the potential for other natural disasters. Let's learn from this experience and take proactive measures to safeguard our community.
11. This coverage sheds light on the significance of WMG as an evacuation route during emergencies.
• Could West Maui’s Old Cane Haul Road Have Helped More People Escape the Fire?" (Civil Beat, Oct 2023)
• Harrowing Eyewitness Accounts Cast Doubt on Official Lahaina Fire Narrative (Civil Beat, Oct 2023)
• Community advocates say Maui's old Cane Haul Road could have helped more people escape Lahaina Fires (Hawaii News Now, Oct 2023)
• The West Maui Transportation Access Plan is mandated by Act 214 discussed Cane Haul Roads as emergency alternative routes.
In conclusion, I urge the Council to prioritize this urgent matter and take immediate action to designate cane haul roads as official evacuation routes for Lahaina. This step is crucial for the safety, security, and resilience of our community, and it aligns with our shared goal of protecting lives, properties, and our environment.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Saman Dias
Community Leader (Maui Bicycling League and WMG Chair)
West Maui Resident
99 Kahan Nui Rd
After review of the Hazard Mitigation Plan for Maui, and I wanted to bring to your attention a crucial matter related to the West Side, particularly Lahaina. Over the past decade, my efforts have been centered on advocating for reduced dependency on automobiles and promoting alternative transportation in the region.
In analyzing the Hazard Mitigation Plan, I noticed that the Priority Risk Index for the West Side identifies Wild Fire, High Winds, Flood, Extreme Heat, Hurricane, and drought as the most likely hazards. Specifically, high winds pose a significant risk, potentially isolating those in areas with limited road networks in the event of road blockages caused by fallen trees and debris, as seen during the Lahaina firestorm.
To address this vulnerability, I propose the implementation of two shovel-ready projects: the West Maui Greenway and the Kahoma Stream as Emergency Evacuation Routes.
West Maui Greenway Project:
Following the August 8 fires, the West Maui Greenway project presents a unique opportunity to integrate the reconstruction of Lahaina's power grid with the advancement of the Greenway. The project, already included in the County of Maui Public Works Transportation Improvement Plan and funded under the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program, has the following key benefits:
Resilience and Sustainability: The Greenway's incorporation of green infrastructure and underground utilities aligns with the goal of creating a more resilient and sustainable community. If underground utilities are not practical, at least relocating the power lines to the Greenway away from the highway would prevent downed power lines blocking the Honoapiilani Hwy. This would allow ease of serviceing without interference of trafffic flow on the highway.
Disaster Management: The Greenway can serve as an alternative route for emergency vehicles during evacuations.
Reduced Environmental Impact: By reducing the number of vehicles on the road, the Greenway helps mitigate noise pollution, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions.
Multi-Use Benefits: The project offers recreational, transportation, and utility accommodation benefits, aligning with legislative efforts emphasizing clean and sustainable transportation.
Kahoma Stream Emergency Evacuation Route: Lahainaluna existing alterantive entry/exit routes are absent and locked by the bypass and mauka. Utilizing existing pathways along Kahoma Stream, this proposal aligns with the priorities outlined in the Hawaii Bicycle Plan of 2003. The evacuation route can serve both as a bicycle transportation pathway and a means of escape during emergencies. The Kahoma Stream pathway minimizes environmental impact and enhances community resilience.
I kindly request your support in exploring these proposals with relevant departments, including the Maui Electric Company. Assessing the feasibility and potential benefits of integrating these projects with Lahaina's recovery efforts could have a lasting positive impact on the community and the entire state of Hawaii.
To add to my request a 7B update presentation of the WMG this information for Council review from Micheal Packard SSFM. You will see he is saying that there are no funds in MC28 except the Countys $200,000.00 match. In other words the County is allowing these fiscally constrained funds to go to sunset.
Aloha all,
As you may or may not be aware, SSFM is currently under contract with the County of Maui to prepare the Work Plan for the West Maui Greenway. This report is currently in draft form and with the County for review with plans to finalize by the end of February. I will let you know when it is available for you all to review. This effort includes a reassessment of the prioritized section for construction, alternative schedules for implementation, and potential funding alternatives. In addition, the County had given us notice to proceed with a pursuit of RAISE Grant implementation funding for the first phase which is also due at the end of February, however we plan on completing the majority over the next 2 weeks. We are working extremely hard to meet this application deadline as this has been identified as the best-case scenario for project implementation. This includes the preparation of a fact sheet and sample letter of support that we will be sending out in the next couple of days to stakeholders and elected officials requesting their participation. We have identified several stakeholders to reach out to, however if you have people/groups of note please let me know. The intent is to showcase a broad section of the community, specifically seeking support from organizations that represent marginalized individuals and communities of concern, as that speaks toward the grant’s intent. As a ~$13million SS4A implementation grant was recently awarded to the County for the Keawe Street Improvements project, it was thought that this grant and effort was better suited for the WMG.
I have provided my understanding as to the status of the questions noted below however, please know that I am just the messenger:
can the existing $13 million allocation in the TIP for the Greenway be amended to build a different section of the greenway, considering the changed circumstances?
The $13million in the TIP is not representative of available funding for this project. This money was put in when the County was seeking a SS4A grant as it was thought to be a requirement of that effort. The only money that is actually usable from this allotment is the $200k in Local funds for what is currently called PE2.
what does it mean that there is still $146k unencumbered from the PE1 phase of the project? Is that money fungible?
I am not aware of the status of the $146k as it was from funds proposed in 2017 and therefore may not be reflective of actual money available.
what are the various opportunities to fund the path, i.e. which pots of money are available? (not, which are currently being considered but rather, which are legally allowed to fund the greenway?)
$200k in Local money that is currently identified for PE2 efforts for the prior priority segment.
what is the latest thinking of the planners regarding the readiness of the path's various phases?
In working with the County, the prioritized section of path to pursue is inclusive of Segment 3-5 which is aligned with the areas impacted by the wildfires. This was selected for a number of reasons, one of which is the belief that it is the most realistic to receive support and funding in the current circumstances. I understand that this is not the belief of everyone, however this is the path that is being pursued at this time with support from the County and therefore I would ask that you support this thinking as well.
If asking how People for Bikes could help, I would be interested in their ability to provide review and/or support behind the completion of the RAISE grant application, specifically in putting together the Benefit-Cost-Analysis. As a part of this grant, we are seeking funding for PE1, PE2, ROW acquisition, and Construction. These are not inexpensive or quick tasks remaining and thus is should also be understood that we are years away from construction. PE1 itself is a 18-24 month, $750k+, process to complete the environmental permitting of which additional community engagement and topographic survey are needed and therefore existing Local funds are insufficient to complete these. I look forward to hearing how this People for Bikes effort/initiative could help our current process.
Thanks, Mike
Michael Y. Packard, P.E., PTOE | Senior Traffic Engineer
501 Sumner Street, Suite 620 | Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
T 808.531.1308 | D 808.356.1205 | F 855.329.7736
mpackard@ssfm.com | www.ssfm.com
To add to my request a 7B update presentation of the WMG this information for Council review from Micheal Packard SSFM. You will see he is saying that there are no funds in MC28 except the Countys $200,000.00 match. In other words the County is allowing these fiscally constrained funds to go to sunset.
Aloha all,
As you may or may not be aware, SSFM is currently under contract with the County of Maui to prepare the Work Plan for the West Maui Greenway. This report is currently in draft form and with the County for review with plans to finalize by the end of February. I will let you know when it is available for you all to review. This effort includes a reassessment of the prioritized section for construction, alternative schedules for implementation, and potential funding alternatives. In addition, the County had given us notice to proceed with a pursuit of RAISE Grant implementation funding for the first phase which is also due at the end of February, however we plan on completing the majority over the next 2 weeks. We are working extremely hard to meet this application deadline as this has been identified as the best-case scenario for project implementation. This includes the preparation of a fact sheet and sample letter of support that we will be sending out in the next couple of days to stakeholders and elected officials requesting their participation. We have identified several stakeholders to reach out to, however if you have people/groups of note please let me know. The intent is to showcase a broad section of the community, specifically seeking support from organizations that represent marginalized individuals and communities of concern, as that speaks toward the grant’s intent. As a ~$13million SS4A implementation grant was recently awarded to the County for the Keawe Street Improvements project, it was thought that this grant and effort was better suited for the WMG.
I have provided my understanding as to the status of the questions noted below however, please know that I am just the messenger:
can the existing $13 million allocation in the TIP for the Greenway be amended to build a different section of the greenway, considering the changed circumstances?
The $13million in the TIP is not representative of available funding for this project. This money was put in when the County was seeking a SS4A grant as it was thought to be a requirement of that effort. The only money that is actually usable from this allotment is the $200k in Local funds for what is currently called PE2.
what does it mean that there is still $146k unencumbered from the PE1 phase of the project? Is that money fungible?
I am not aware of the status of the $146k as it was from funds proposed in 2017 and therefore may not be reflective of actual money available.
what are the various opportunities to fund the path, i.e. which pots of money are available? (not, which are currently being considered but rather, which are legally allowed to fund the greenway?)
$200k in Local money that is currently identified for PE2 efforts for the prior priority segment.
what is the latest thinking of the planners regarding the readiness of the path's various phases?
In working with the County, the prioritized section of path to pursue is inclusive of Segment 3-5 which is aligned with the areas impacted by the wildfires. This was selected for a number of reasons, one of which is the belief that it is the most realistic to receive support and funding in the current circumstances. I understand that this is not the belief of everyone, however this is the path that is being pursued at this time with support from the County and therefore I would ask that you support this thinking as well.
If asking how People for Bikes could help, I would be interested in their ability to provide review and/or support behind the completion of the RAISE grant application, specifically in putting together the Benefit-Cost-Analysis. As a part of this grant, we are seeking funding for PE1, PE2, ROW acquisition, and Construction. These are not inexpensive or quick tasks remaining and thus is should also be understood that we are years away from construction. PE1 itself is a 18-24 month, $750k+, process to complete the environmental permitting of which additional community engagement and topographic survey are needed and therefore existing Local funds are insufficient to complete these. I look forward to hearing how this People for Bikes effort/initiative could help our current process.
Thanks, Mike
Michael Y. Packard, P.E., PTOE | Senior Traffic Engineer
501 Sumner Street, Suite 620 | Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
T 808.531.1308 | D 808.356.1205 | F 855.329.7736
mpackard@ssfm.com | www.ssfm.com
Cane road for safety, please.
Lahaina Needs Evacuation Routes – Please Create a West Maui Greenway
As a West Maui resident, we need an emergency declaration designating the cane haul roads as official evacuation routes for Lahaina. This is seriously important for fire, tsunami, and other potential disaster situations. Using the cane haul roads should also help tie the community together through a West Maui Greenway. Personally, my family and I are anxious about easily accessible evacuation routes. The only real route is the highway. Cane roads should be opened as an alternative. Adding a West Maui Greenway Project can help alleviate safety concerns and contributes to broader goals, such as supporting climate change mitigation, emergency preparedness, and helping grow our economy.
Now is an opportune time to seek assistance from FEMA and Army Corps of Engineer to pave the remaining sections of the cane haul roads. These roads can also be utilized for the transportation of debris, providing an additional benefit in disaster response efforts. We need to be prepared and have an emergency route plan now, especially with the upcoming fire season and the potential for other natural disasters. Please take proactive measures to safeguard our community.
Please prioritize this urgent matter and take immediate action to designate cane haul roads as official evacuation routes for Lahaina. Paving and opening these roads to the public will protect property, people’s lives, and our environment.
Mahalo
Connie Mittendorf
We need the cane roads paved and open
West maui needs the bypass completed to Kaanapali and the rod thru Lahaina open
We have one road and too much traffic
Urgent Call to Action for Lahaina's Safety! 🔥
Honorable Council Members,
I am urging the County Council to issue an emergency declaration designating cane haul roads as official evacuation routes for Lahaina. This is crucial following the recent fire tragedy that claimed 100 lives and caused extensive damage to our community.
Key Points:
• Loss of lives and property highlights the need for designated evacuation routes.
• Cane haul roads are historically significant and crucial for evacuation during emergencies.
• Recent wildfire emphasized the urgent need for alternative evacuation routes.
• Cane haul roads, if unlocked and declared as evacuation routes, can provide immediate safety measures.
• Collaboration with authorities and advocates is essential for aligning plans and raising community awareness.
• Seeking assistance from FEMA and Army Corps of Engineers for paving cane haul roads is crucial for disaster response efforts.
In conclusion, I urge the Council to prioritize this matter for the safety and resilience of our community.
Thank you for your attention.
S M Lawson
808.264.8004
Feb 6, 2024.
Lahaina HI 96761
Testimony on Urgent Need for Emergency Evacuation Routes in Lahaina
Honorable Chair and Council Members,
I am writing on behalf of our community to urgently request that the County Council issue an emergency declaration designating the cane haul roads as official evacuation routes for Lahaina. This declaration is of paramount importance in light of the recent Lahaina fire and its devastating impact on our community.
The loss of lives, totaling 100, along with significant damage to properties and businesses, has left a profound scar on our community and inflicted severe economic losses on Maui's economy. These losses could have been mitigated had we had designated evacuation routes and utilized the cane haul roads as a fire barrier during the recent wildfire.
Preserving Lahaina's Legacy: The Role of Cane Haul Roads in Emergency Evacuation
1. Historical Significance: Cane haul roads have a deep historical connection to the sugar plantation era in Lahaina, playing a vital role in the region's economic development.
2. Geographical Vulnerability: Lahaina's geographical location makes it susceptible to hazards like the Winds of Kauaula, known for creating fire hazards. Loss of the sugar cane cover crop has changed fire dynamics, necessitating adaptation and planning for potential wildfires.
3. Lessons from Lahaina's Recent Wildfire: The recent Lahaina wildfire emphasized the urgent need for alternative evacuation routes as existing road systems faced challenges meeting sudden evacuation demands.
4. Role of Cane Haul Roads During the Fire: Residents attempted to use Lahaina's dirt cane haul roads during the wildfire but found them locked, requiring police intervention to unlock them, showcasing their potential as emergency evacuation paths.
5. Community Trauma and Emotional Impact: Residents experienced trauma during the wildfire, with some trapped in traffic jams as the fire approached. Established evacuation routes can alleviate anxiety and provide a sense of security during future events.
6. Proactive Measures for Safety: Cane haul roads, already in existence, provide an immediate infrastructure base for evacuation route development. Proactively unlocking and declaring these roads as evacuation routes is a practical and immediate step towards community safety.
7. Opportunities for Immediate Action: Government intervention to unlock existing cane haul roads can serve as an immediate and tangible step, aligning with ongoing Lahaina Wildfire Relief efforts and demonstrating a commitment to learning from recent disasters.
8. Economic and Environmental Benefits: The West Maui Greenway Project addresses safety concerns and contributes to broader goals, supporting climate change mitigation, emergency preparedness, and creating a sustainable and resilient community.
9. Collaboration with Authorities and Advocates: Collaboration with local authorities and community advocates ensures alignment with existing plans and regulations, while community awareness campaigns inform residents about designated evacuation routes and the importance of cane haul roads.
10. Seeking Assistance from FEMA and Army Corps of Engineers: Given the presence of FEMA and the Army Corps of Engineers in the area, this presents a unique opportunity to seek their assistance in paving the remaining sections of the cane haul roads. These roads can also be utilized for the transportation of debris, providing an additional benefit in disaster response efforts. Let's not wait 10-20 years to pave these roads; we need to be prepared and have an emergency route plan now, especially with the upcoming fire season and the potential for other natural disasters. Let's learn from this experience and take proactive measures to safeguard our community.
11. This coverage sheds light on the significance of WMG as an evacuation route during emergencies.
This coverage sheds light on the significance of WMG as an evacuation route during emergencies.
• Could West Maui’s Old Cane Haul Road Have Helped More People Escape the Fire?" (Civil Beat, Oct 2023)
https://www.civilbeat.org/2023/10/could-west-mauis-old-cane-haul-road-have-helped-more-people-escape-the-fire/
• Harrowing Eyewitness Accounts Cast Doubt on Official Lahaina Fire Narrative (Civil Beat, Oct 2023)
https://www.civilbeat.org/?p=1592654&utm_source=Civil+Beat+Master+List&utm_campaign=ac7a804a63-
• Community advocates say Maui's old Cane Haul Road could have helped more people escape Lahaina Fires (Hawaii News Now, Oct 2023)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CM81Nao0PQ
The West Maui Transportation Access Plan is mandated by Act 214 discussed Cane Haul Roads as emergency alternative routes.
https://hidot.hawaii.gov/administration/files/2013/01/west-maui-trans-access-plan.pdf
- The segment of Honoapiilani Highway between Olowalu and Kaanapali is laced with cane haul roads which access the lands mauka of the highway. While these roads were intended to service the sugar plantation operations, these cane haul roads also serve as emergency alternate routes in the event of road closures occurring within this segment of Honoapiilani Highway.
In conclusion, I urge the Council to prioritize this urgent matter and take immediate action to designate cane haul roads as official evacuation routes for Lahaina. This step is crucial for the safety, security, and resilience of our community, and it aligns with our shared goal of protecting lives, properties, and our environment.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Saman Dias
Community Leader (Maui Bicycling League and WMG Chair)
West Maui Resident
99 Kahan Nui Rd
Feb 6, 2024.
Lahaina HI 96761
Testimony on Urgent Need for Emergency Evacuation Routes in Lahaina
Honorable Chair and Council Members,
I am writing on behalf of our community to urgently request that the County Council issue an emergency declaration designating the cane haul roads as official evacuation routes for Lahaina. This declaration is of paramount importance in light of the recent Lahaina fire and its devastating impact on our community.
The loss of lives, totaling 100, along with significant damage to properties and businesses, has left a profound scar on our community and inflicted severe economic losses on Maui's economy. These losses could have been mitigated had we had designated evacuation routes and utilized the cane haul roads as a fire barrier during the recent wildfire.
Preserving Lahaina's Legacy: The Role of Cane Haul Roads in Emergency Evacuation
1. Historical Significance: Cane haul roads have a deep historical connection to the sugar plantation era in Lahaina, playing a vital role in the region's economic development.
2. Geographical Vulnerability: Lahaina's geographical location makes it susceptible to hazards like the Winds of Kauaula, known for creating fire hazards. Loss of the sugar cane cover crop has changed fire dynamics, necessitating adaptation and planning for potential wildfires.
3. Lessons from Lahaina's Recent Wildfire: The recent Lahaina wildfire emphasized the urgent need for alternative evacuation routes as existing road systems faced challenges meeting sudden evacuation demands.
4. Role of Cane Haul Roads During the Fire: Residents attempted to use Lahaina's dirt cane haul roads during the wildfire but found them locked, requiring police intervention to unlock them, showcasing their potential as emergency evacuation paths.
5. Community Trauma and Emotional Impact: Residents experienced trauma during the wildfire, with some trapped in traffic jams as the fire approached. Established evacuation routes can alleviate anxiety and provide a sense of security during future events.
6. Proactive Measures for Safety: Cane haul roads, already in existence, provide an immediate infrastructure base for evacuation route development. Proactively unlocking and declaring these roads as evacuation routes is a practical and immediate step towards community safety.
7. Opportunities for Immediate Action: Government intervention to unlock existing cane haul roads can serve as an immediate and tangible step, aligning with ongoing Lahaina Wildfire Relief efforts and demonstrating a commitment to learning from recent disasters.
8. Economic and Environmental Benefits: The West Maui Greenway Project addresses safety concerns and contributes to broader goals, supporting climate change mitigation, emergency preparedness, and creating a sustainable and resilient community.
9. Collaboration with Authorities and Advocates: Collaboration with local authorities and community advocates ensures alignment with existing plans and regulations, while community awareness campaigns inform residents about designated evacuation routes and the importance of cane haul roads.
10. Seeking Assistance from FEMA and Army Corps of Engineers: Given the presence of FEMA and the Army Corps of Engineers in the area, this presents a unique opportunity to seek their assistance in paving the remaining sections of the cane haul roads. These roads can also be utilized for the transportation of debris, providing an additional benefit in disaster response efforts. Let's not wait 10-20 years to pave these roads; we need to be prepared and have an emergency route plan now, especially with the upcoming fire season and the potential for other natural disasters. Let's learn from this experience and take proactive measures to safeguard our community.
11. This coverage sheds light on the significance of WMG as an evacuation route during emergencies.
• Could West Maui’s Old Cane Haul Road Have Helped More People Escape the Fire?" (Civil Beat, Oct 2023)
• Harrowing Eyewitness Accounts Cast Doubt on Official Lahaina Fire Narrative (Civil Beat, Oct 2023)
• Community advocates say Maui's old Cane Haul Road could have helped more people escape Lahaina Fires (Hawaii News Now, Oct 2023)
• The West Maui Transportation Access Plan is mandated by Act 214 discussed Cane Haul Roads as emergency alternative routes.
In conclusion, I urge the Council to prioritize this urgent matter and take immediate action to designate cane haul roads as official evacuation routes for Lahaina. This step is crucial for the safety, security, and resilience of our community, and it aligns with our shared goal of protecting lives, properties, and our environment.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Saman Dias
Community Leader (Maui Bicycling League and WMG Chair)
West Maui Resident
99 Kahan Nui Rd
After review of the Hazard Mitigation Plan for Maui, and I wanted to bring to your attention a crucial matter related to the West Side, particularly Lahaina. Over the past decade, my efforts have been centered on advocating for reduced dependency on automobiles and promoting alternative transportation in the region.
In analyzing the Hazard Mitigation Plan, I noticed that the Priority Risk Index for the West Side identifies Wild Fire, High Winds, Flood, Extreme Heat, Hurricane, and drought as the most likely hazards. Specifically, high winds pose a significant risk, potentially isolating those in areas with limited road networks in the event of road blockages caused by fallen trees and debris, as seen during the Lahaina firestorm.
To address this vulnerability, I propose the implementation of two shovel-ready projects: the West Maui Greenway and the Kahoma Stream as Emergency Evacuation Routes.
West Maui Greenway Project:
Following the August 8 fires, the West Maui Greenway project presents a unique opportunity to integrate the reconstruction of Lahaina's power grid with the advancement of the Greenway. The project, already included in the County of Maui Public Works Transportation Improvement Plan and funded under the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program, has the following key benefits:
Resilience and Sustainability: The Greenway's incorporation of green infrastructure and underground utilities aligns with the goal of creating a more resilient and sustainable community. If underground utilities are not practical, at least relocating the power lines to the Greenway away from the highway would prevent downed power lines blocking the Honoapiilani Hwy. This would allow ease of serviceing without interference of trafffic flow on the highway.
Disaster Management: The Greenway can serve as an alternative route for emergency vehicles during evacuations.
Reduced Environmental Impact: By reducing the number of vehicles on the road, the Greenway helps mitigate noise pollution, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions.
Multi-Use Benefits: The project offers recreational, transportation, and utility accommodation benefits, aligning with legislative efforts emphasizing clean and sustainable transportation.
Kahoma Stream Emergency Evacuation Route: Lahainaluna existing alterantive entry/exit routes are absent and locked by the bypass and mauka. Utilizing existing pathways along Kahoma Stream, this proposal aligns with the priorities outlined in the Hawaii Bicycle Plan of 2003. The evacuation route can serve both as a bicycle transportation pathway and a means of escape during emergencies. The Kahoma Stream pathway minimizes environmental impact and enhances community resilience.
I kindly request your support in exploring these proposals with relevant departments, including the Maui Electric Company. Assessing the feasibility and potential benefits of integrating these projects with Lahaina's recovery efforts could have a lasting positive impact on the community and the entire state of Hawaii.
To add to my request a 7B update presentation of the WMG this information for Council review from Micheal Packard SSFM. You will see he is saying that there are no funds in MC28 except the Countys $200,000.00 match. In other words the County is allowing these fiscally constrained funds to go to sunset.
Aloha all,
As you may or may not be aware, SSFM is currently under contract with the County of Maui to prepare the Work Plan for the West Maui Greenway. This report is currently in draft form and with the County for review with plans to finalize by the end of February. I will let you know when it is available for you all to review. This effort includes a reassessment of the prioritized section for construction, alternative schedules for implementation, and potential funding alternatives. In addition, the County had given us notice to proceed with a pursuit of RAISE Grant implementation funding for the first phase which is also due at the end of February, however we plan on completing the majority over the next 2 weeks. We are working extremely hard to meet this application deadline as this has been identified as the best-case scenario for project implementation. This includes the preparation of a fact sheet and sample letter of support that we will be sending out in the next couple of days to stakeholders and elected officials requesting their participation. We have identified several stakeholders to reach out to, however if you have people/groups of note please let me know. The intent is to showcase a broad section of the community, specifically seeking support from organizations that represent marginalized individuals and communities of concern, as that speaks toward the grant’s intent. As a ~$13million SS4A implementation grant was recently awarded to the County for the Keawe Street Improvements project, it was thought that this grant and effort was better suited for the WMG.
I have provided my understanding as to the status of the questions noted below however, please know that I am just the messenger:
can the existing $13 million allocation in the TIP for the Greenway be amended to build a different section of the greenway, considering the changed circumstances?
The $13million in the TIP is not representative of available funding for this project. This money was put in when the County was seeking a SS4A grant as it was thought to be a requirement of that effort. The only money that is actually usable from this allotment is the $200k in Local funds for what is currently called PE2.
what does it mean that there is still $146k unencumbered from the PE1 phase of the project? Is that money fungible?
I am not aware of the status of the $146k as it was from funds proposed in 2017 and therefore may not be reflective of actual money available.
what are the various opportunities to fund the path, i.e. which pots of money are available? (not, which are currently being considered but rather, which are legally allowed to fund the greenway?)
$200k in Local money that is currently identified for PE2 efforts for the prior priority segment.
what is the latest thinking of the planners regarding the readiness of the path's various phases?
In working with the County, the prioritized section of path to pursue is inclusive of Segment 3-5 which is aligned with the areas impacted by the wildfires. This was selected for a number of reasons, one of which is the belief that it is the most realistic to receive support and funding in the current circumstances. I understand that this is not the belief of everyone, however this is the path that is being pursued at this time with support from the County and therefore I would ask that you support this thinking as well.
If asking how People for Bikes could help, I would be interested in their ability to provide review and/or support behind the completion of the RAISE grant application, specifically in putting together the Benefit-Cost-Analysis. As a part of this grant, we are seeking funding for PE1, PE2, ROW acquisition, and Construction. These are not inexpensive or quick tasks remaining and thus is should also be understood that we are years away from construction. PE1 itself is a 18-24 month, $750k+, process to complete the environmental permitting of which additional community engagement and topographic survey are needed and therefore existing Local funds are insufficient to complete these. I look forward to hearing how this People for Bikes effort/initiative could help our current process.
Thanks, Mike
Michael Y. Packard, P.E., PTOE | Senior Traffic Engineer
501 Sumner Street, Suite 620 | Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
T 808.531.1308 | D 808.356.1205 | F 855.329.7736
mpackard@ssfm.com | www.ssfm.com
To add to my request a 7B update presentation of the WMG this information for Council review from Micheal Packard SSFM. You will see he is saying that there are no funds in MC28 except the Countys $200,000.00 match. In other words the County is allowing these fiscally constrained funds to go to sunset.
Aloha all,
As you may or may not be aware, SSFM is currently under contract with the County of Maui to prepare the Work Plan for the West Maui Greenway. This report is currently in draft form and with the County for review with plans to finalize by the end of February. I will let you know when it is available for you all to review. This effort includes a reassessment of the prioritized section for construction, alternative schedules for implementation, and potential funding alternatives. In addition, the County had given us notice to proceed with a pursuit of RAISE Grant implementation funding for the first phase which is also due at the end of February, however we plan on completing the majority over the next 2 weeks. We are working extremely hard to meet this application deadline as this has been identified as the best-case scenario for project implementation. This includes the preparation of a fact sheet and sample letter of support that we will be sending out in the next couple of days to stakeholders and elected officials requesting their participation. We have identified several stakeholders to reach out to, however if you have people/groups of note please let me know. The intent is to showcase a broad section of the community, specifically seeking support from organizations that represent marginalized individuals and communities of concern, as that speaks toward the grant’s intent. As a ~$13million SS4A implementation grant was recently awarded to the County for the Keawe Street Improvements project, it was thought that this grant and effort was better suited for the WMG.
I have provided my understanding as to the status of the questions noted below however, please know that I am just the messenger:
can the existing $13 million allocation in the TIP for the Greenway be amended to build a different section of the greenway, considering the changed circumstances?
The $13million in the TIP is not representative of available funding for this project. This money was put in when the County was seeking a SS4A grant as it was thought to be a requirement of that effort. The only money that is actually usable from this allotment is the $200k in Local funds for what is currently called PE2.
what does it mean that there is still $146k unencumbered from the PE1 phase of the project? Is that money fungible?
I am not aware of the status of the $146k as it was from funds proposed in 2017 and therefore may not be reflective of actual money available.
what are the various opportunities to fund the path, i.e. which pots of money are available? (not, which are currently being considered but rather, which are legally allowed to fund the greenway?)
$200k in Local money that is currently identified for PE2 efforts for the prior priority segment.
what is the latest thinking of the planners regarding the readiness of the path's various phases?
In working with the County, the prioritized section of path to pursue is inclusive of Segment 3-5 which is aligned with the areas impacted by the wildfires. This was selected for a number of reasons, one of which is the belief that it is the most realistic to receive support and funding in the current circumstances. I understand that this is not the belief of everyone, however this is the path that is being pursued at this time with support from the County and therefore I would ask that you support this thinking as well.
If asking how People for Bikes could help, I would be interested in their ability to provide review and/or support behind the completion of the RAISE grant application, specifically in putting together the Benefit-Cost-Analysis. As a part of this grant, we are seeking funding for PE1, PE2, ROW acquisition, and Construction. These are not inexpensive or quick tasks remaining and thus is should also be understood that we are years away from construction. PE1 itself is a 18-24 month, $750k+, process to complete the environmental permitting of which additional community engagement and topographic survey are needed and therefore existing Local funds are insufficient to complete these. I look forward to hearing how this People for Bikes effort/initiative could help our current process.
Thanks, Mike
Michael Y. Packard, P.E., PTOE | Senior Traffic Engineer
501 Sumner Street, Suite 620 | Honolulu, Hawaii 96817
T 808.531.1308 | D 808.356.1205 | F 855.329.7736
mpackard@ssfm.com | www.ssfm.com