Central Maui Regional Park Final Environmental Assessment

Aerial photo of Central Maui. Project area is beyond the green sugar cane fields to the left of the Nā Hōkū at Maui Lani. File photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

A Final Environmental Assessment has been filed for the planned Central Maui Regional Park, with a finding of ‘no significant impact.’

The project calls for the construction of a 65-acre park bordering the Kuihelani Highway to the east and the Maui Lani residential area to the north.

According to the assessment, the park will also border a community center and cultural preserve to the west; as well as county housing, a middle school, and commercial areas to the south.

The EA document says plans include 9-ball fields, 4-soccer fields, comfort stations, parking with 600 stalls, and an equipment storage area. The plans also call for the construction of 1-2 irrigation water storage tanks to provide an estimated 100,000 gallons of water for park irrigation.

Under the section of the document that solicits an explanation of need, the EA cites an assessment from the RM Towill Corporation, which notes an anticipated deficit of nearly 756 acres of regional park space by 2030 due to population growth.

The EA document, submitted by the Department of Land and Natural Resources, states that the park will provide recreational opportunities to both school children and the general public.

Other uses include a venue for sports tournaments, and a storm water retention basin for the planned 2,550-unit Waiʻale development.