30/08/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 31/08/2024 04:46
Zone openings will provide clear access for residents
With residential debris removal nearly 100percent complete in these areas, opening of the Wahikuli and Māla neighborhoods in Lahaina is set for Tuesday, Sept. 3, at noon.
The opening includes zones 1C, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F, 3A, 3B, 3C, 4A, 4B and 4C, according to Maui Emergency Management Agency. Opening the zones will allow clear access for residents. As these zones reopen, security checkpoints will be reallocated to other areas in the Lahaina Impact Zone.
During this past Wednesday's Disaster Recovery Community Update Meeting in Lahaina, Mahina Martin, County of Maui Director of Public Affairs, discussed concerns raised at the Aug. 21 Lahaina community meeting from Wahikuli residents about reopening access. Area residents voiced worry about people entering the area without good reason.
"The concern was that now that the checkpoints will open, people can come, be a little nīele around the place, mahaʻoi, go where they don't belong, do things they shouldn't be doing," shesaid. "We are going to rely on all of you helping each other."
Martin said the County is taking several steps to help with the transition:
With health and safety issues alleviated and areas cleared, the County of Maui does not have legal justification to restrict the public roads, Martin added.
For information about Wahikuli and Māla zones 1C, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F, 3A, 3B, 3C, 4A, 4B and 4C and access, visit https://www.mauirecovers.org.
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