Maui County Addresses Illegal Encampments at Kanahā Beach Park

The County of Maui departments of Parks and Recreation, Environmental Management, Public Works and Housing and Human Concerns began work today with the Maui Police Department to address illegal encampments and public health and safety concerns at Kanahā Beach Park and in surrounding areas.

Various state agencies are also working in coordination with the County of Maui to implement what they are calling a “Compassionate Action Plan.” County officials say the encampments are negatively impacting the beach, nearshore waters and wetlands.

The Department of Parks and Recreation is also conducting park maintenance and repairs, removing debris and conducting “deep cleaning” of restrooms, grills and showers.

Social workers with Family Life Center have conducted outreach to individuals who county officials say have been at the encampments, offering housing options and making other services available.

Mayor Michael Victorino said, “I want to thank everyone for their work in this compassionate approach to these encampments in the Kanahā Beach Park area. We need to make sure our beach park areas are clean and safe for everyone. We appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding for the need to close Kanahā park during this time.”

Kanahā Beach Park and surrounding areas were closed for cleaning and maintenance on the evening of Tuesday, Feb. 18. Closed areas include a portion of Amala Place and the Northshore Greenway bike path. The park is expected to reopen at 4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20.

Maui County employees work to clear areas of vegetation Wednesday morning at Kanahā Beach Park and off of Amala Place in Kahului. PC: County of Maui / Ryan Piros

Maui County employees work to clear areas of vegetation Wednesday morning at Kanahā Beach Park and off of Amala Place in Kahului. PC: County of Maui / Ryan Piros

Maui County employees work to clear areas of vegetation Wednesday morning at Kanahā Beach Park and off of Amala Place in Kahului. PC: County of Maui / Ryan Piros

Maui County employees work to clear areas of vegetation Wednesday morning at Kanahā Beach Park and off of Amala Place in Kahului. PC: County of Maui / Ryan Piros