Deadline is Today for Public Comment on Hāna Pier Removal

Public comment on plans to remove the deteriorated Hāna Pier in East Maui are being accepted through today for an environmental impact statement preparation notice filed by the state Department of Transportation.

The DOT proposes the removal of the 95-year-old concrete pier and its access trestle, which are condemned.  Existing piles would remain in place to avoid adverse impact to corals that have colonized below the surface.

According to the document, the removal coincides with community opposition to commercial use of the pier, which would be required under the Harbor Division’s mission if the pier were repaired instead of demolished.

The document further states that the action is needed because individuals continue to access the deteriorated pier despite barrier fencing and warning signage, presenting the DOT with ongoing exposure to liability.

The Hāna Pier was built in the early 1920s, originally as a commercial harbor. State officials say the facility was transferred from the HDOT to the Department of Land & Natural Resources Boating Division in the early 2000s, then conveyed back to HDOT in 2010.

In 2011, a Hāna Harbor Development Plan was completed that included recommendations for improvements to Hāna Pier.

Records show that shortly after the transfer, investigations of the facility determined it was unsafe and the pier was condemned and closed.

Comments on the EISPN should be sent to the proposing agency: Department of Transportation, Harbors Division Sandra Rossetter, Project Manager, [email protected], (808) 587‐1886 Attn: Planning Section, 79 South Nimitz Highway, Honolulu, HI 96813.  A copy should also be sent to the consultant: HHF Planners Gail Renard, [email protected], (808) 457-3167 733 Bishop Street, Suite 2590 Honolulu, HI 96813.

Condemned Hāna Pier slated for removal. File image 2008 by Wendy Osher.

Hāna pier, file photo 2008, by Wendy Osher.

Hāna pier, file photo 2011 by Wendy Osher.

Hana Pier. File Photo by Wendy OSHER.