Office of the Governor – News Release – Gov. Green Announces Opening of key Lahaina roadways

Posted on Aug 15, 2023 in Latest Department News, Newsroom, Office of the Governor Press Releases

HONOLULU — Gov. Josh Green today announced that after direct discussions with Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen; Maui County Fire and Public Safety Department Chief Bradley Ventura; Maui County Police Chief John Pelletier, and Dual Status Commander of Joint Task Force-50 Brigadier General Stephen Logan, the road to Lahaina, Honoapiʻilani Highway at Maʻalaea, will open starting at 6 tonight, Aug. 15, 2023, to West Maui residents, first responders and West Maui employees.

Tomorrow, Wednesday, Aug.16, 2023, the road to Lahaina will open to all motorists daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. 

Access from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. will be limited to West Maui residents, first responders and West Maui employees.

Road to Lahaina Schedule – Starting Tomorrow:

  • Open daily for all motorists 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Late-night access from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. will be limited to West Maui residents, first responders and West Maui employees 

State officials are urging the public to access West Maui only if necessary to live, work, or volunteer.

Gov. Green asks that the public exercise caution when returning to West Maui. “We are prioritizing the reopening of this passage to ensure access for first responders, medical professionals, residents of West Maui, and the public.” 

With the opening of the Honoapiʻilani Highway, please consider allowing time for those who have the highest need for access, such as those seeking medical assistance, returning residents of West Maui, first responders, and essential workers. 

The road will be open until further notice. Motorists should expect delays because some areas still contain debris and the highway will be restricted to one lane at certain areas.

Some areas of Maui are still without power. Please access the area only if necessary and above all, drive with aloha and compassion.

The impact zone remains off-limits due to the active search and recovery efforts. Again, there may be debris on the road, and areas where traffic builds. Please be vigilant as you drive. 

For more information, resources and ways to help, visit https://www.mauinuistrong.info/ and https://mauistrong.hawaii.gov.

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Media Contacts:  

Erika Engle

Press Secretary

Office of the Governor, State of Hawai‘i

Phone: (808) 586-0120

Email: [email protected]

  

Makana McClellan  

Director of Communications  

Office of the Governor, State of Hawaiʻi 

Cell: (808) 265-0083  

Email: [email protected]