The fabled Lahaina bypass is finally moving forward. As you may or may not know, the holdup was due to a fascinating archaeological site that was discovered early in the construction of the bypass. The cultural site spans 32 acres in a triangular shaped area. The site includes several rock walls, presumed to be agricultural terraces. Investigation as to whether there are burials at the site are ongoing.
Keawe street will need to be extended in order to connect with the bypass outside the border of the archaeological site. The bypass then continues along its planned route around the Kaanapali Resort, after which, it will eventually connect with Honoapiilani Highway in Honokawai.
The December construction includes preparation for detours around Lahainaluna Road, which connects to Lahaina Intermediate School, Lahainaluna High School, Princess Nahienaena Elementary School and the Kelawea Mauka residential area. Ikena Avenue will probably close for construction in January. A two-lane bridge will be required for continued work around Kahoma Stream. The initial work will also require an underpass below Lahainaluna Road.
Fortunately, the change in the location of the bypass is not expected to increase the original $48 million price tag on the project. A number of legislature members are determined to see the project through, despite any speedbumps they may find along the road (pun intended).
The consensus seems to be that this project will increase employment in West Maui. The daunting commutes in that area are undoubtedly a problem, but business on that side of the island seems to be growing faster than other areas on Maui. There are a great number of people who will be a lot happier once this bypass is built.
If you are planning to relocate to Maui, browse through our listings on Kaanapali homes. We can also recommend some of the very nice listings on condos in Lahaina. For those of you who prefer Maui as a vacation spot, see these time intervals. Mahalo, and remember that if you need any help at all, please contact Whalers Realty at (800)367-5632 or email us at . Happy New Year!
