Public invited to help shape plans for new Pāʻia Gym; Online comment period open through Oct. 18, 2026

The County of Maui Department of Parks and Recreation encourages Maui community members and other stakeholders to offer online feedback on a proposed project to construct a new Pāʻia Gymnasium. Public comments will be accepted online through Oct. 18, 2026, at www.mauicounty.gov/parksplanning.

More than 40 community members attended a meeting Thursday, Sept. 17, 2026, at Pāʻia Community Center to discuss options for the new gym.

Named the Alfred “Flako” Boteilho Sr. Gymnasium, the proposed gym would be constructed at the site of the existing Pāʻia Gymnasium after demolition. The expanded facility would serve as a modern recreational complex that could be used as an emergency shelter or recovery center during and after disasters. Ideas on the layout of the site plan and design of the new gymnasium are welcomed.

“We encourage all Maui residents and stakeholders to submit any suggestions or insights about the new gymnasium,” DPR Director Patrick McCall said. “This project is a significant investment in the heart of Pāʻia, providing the community with an improved and expanded gym that can better meet the everyday recreational needs of our keiki, families and residents. Just as importantly, the upgraded facility will strengthen Pāʻia’s emergency preparedness and ability to serve as a safe, reliable gathering place and shelter during severe storms and other emergencies.”

The current concept for amenities includes an approximately 15,210-square-foot gymnasium with retractable bleachers, a multiuse gym floor, a boxing ring, a weight-training room, a stage, updated locker rooms and restrooms, and related support spaces. The facility is also expected to include an automatic fire sprinkler system and a backup generator for emergency use. These proposed features may be refined as planning, community engagement, design, funding and approvals continue.

DPR intends to utilize County Capital Improvement Project funding for the project, which is in the initial planning stages. A cost estimate will be determined once the preferred building design and site layout plans have been finalized.

The project team includes DPR, consulting partners G70 International, Bowers + Kubota Consulting, Nishikawa Architects and Fukumoto Engineering.

For more information, email parks.dept@co.maui.hi.us. For general information on DPR, visit www.mauicounty.gov/parks.