Health & Safety focus of Maalaea improvements

The state plans to open bids on an improvement project at Maui’s Ma’alaea Small Boat harbor that is expected to correct public health and safety concerns.

Work involves the rebuilding of a major portion of the small boat harbor, replacing badly deteriorated facilities, and providing boaters with accessible sewer pump-out systems.

Photo by Wendy Osher.

A project consultant with the state Department of Land and Natural Resources will brief the public on the planned project and answer questions during a meeting tonight (Wednesday, May 19, 2010) from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Sea Flight Building in Maalaea (101 Maalaea Boat Harbor Road).

The project will include the construction of a new ferry terminal building at the end of the South Mole, a new comfort station, new waste water treatment system, sewer pump-outs, concrete paved parking areas and access roads, concrete piers, electrical, water and sewer utilities.

“Our small boat harbors offer a vital connection to recreational and commercial ocean activities,” said DLNR Chair Laura Thielen.  “It is important that they be kept in good working condition.  By repairing the heavily used Ma‘alaea Small Boat Harbor, the boaters, community and visitors will have a safer, cleaner and more hospitable facility, and enjoy greater access to the ocean that surrounds our islands,” said Thielen.

The project is funded through federal grants administered by the Federal Transit Administration and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, and state funds.  DLNR’s Engineering Division will advertise for bids on the project this month and open the bids in June 2010.