Molina Thanks Public Works for Makawao Road Repairs

Maui County Councilmember Michael Molina today transmitted correspondence to the Director of Public Works, extending his appreciation for hearing his pleas relating to the need to resurface Makawao Avenue.

Maui Now graphic.

During the Council’s Fiscal Year 2020 Budget deliberations, Molina had requested as one of his budget priorities, that Makawao Avenue be repaved.  According to Molina, the department had advised that the project could cost as much as $7.7 million and could also be available for federal aid.

Accordingly, Molina requested that the Council submit a request to the Maui Planning Organization to list the Makawao Avenue repaving project on the State Transportation Improvement Program or STIP for prioritization and federal funding.

Molina noted that the process of listing the project on the STIP, receiving federal funds and then proceeding toward construction could take a number of years.  Therefore, he said, “the department’s decision to provide interim hot mix asphalt to maintain road safety until the road can be properly repaved or reconstructed is appreciated.”

Road work begins today and continues through Friday.

“The condition of Makawao Avenue is seriously deteriorating, especially as a result of the heavy rains we experienced this year,” said Molina.  “The interim road work will improve the public and vehicular safety until more permanent work can be performed.”

“I made the repaving of Makawao Avenue one of my Fiscal Year 2020 budget priorities, because it needs serious attention,” said Molina. “I’m grateful the director of Public Works heard my pleas and is willing to take immediate and appropriate action,” he said.