Haleakalā to get $2 Million for Parking Lot Improvements

Summit photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

Maui will receive $2 million in federal funds to refurbish seven parking lots along the Haleakalā Highway in the summit area of Haleakalā National Park.

The grant will go towards the rehabilitation and repaving of deteriorating asphalt pavement, and improvement of disabled accessibility.

The parking lots provide access to the National Park’s trails, visitor centers, campgrounds, and scenic overlooks.

US Senator Daniel Inouye who announced the funding release said with arrivals up more than 11%, and visitor spending up more than 20% over last year, “we must continue to invest in our tourism infrastructure.”

“For the 96 years that Haleakalā has been a national park its scenic vistas, unique habitats and cultural sites have helped draw millions to Maui each year and these funds will improve access for residents, visitors and those living with disabilities,” he said.

Fellow US Senator, Daniel Akaka of Hawaii also joined in lauding the grant funds saying, “Haleakalā is like nowhere else in the world and the National Park helps to draw over two million visitors a year to Maui, but the park’s parking lots are due for renovation.  This grant will help keep the Haleakalā the world class destination that it is while making visits easier and safer for our disabled guests,” said Sen. Akaka.

The funds are part of a larger $3.75 million appropriation.  The remaining $1.75 million was designated for a design study for the repair of taxiway Z at the Honolulu International Airport.