The West Maui Greenway (WMG) is a vital infrastructure project that directly supports Hawaiʻi’s state and county goals, addressing critical issues such as climate action, emergency preparedness, and sustainable development. As a proposed 25-mile multi-use path, WMG offers a model for modern transportation infrastructure that meets the pressing needs of our communities while aligning with key legislative and strategic initiatives.
Supporting Climate Action Goals
WMG directly addresses Hawaiʻi’s climate commitments by:
- Reducing Carbon Emissions: Providing a safe, accessible option for walking and biking reduces dependency on motor vehicles, cutting greenhouse gas emissions. Each mile of the greenway eliminates an estimated [insert metric] tons of CO2 annually by replacing short car trips with active transportation.
- Aligning with the Navahine v. Hawaiʻi DOT Settlement: The WMG fulfills the settlement’s call for bold investments in climate-friendly transportation infrastructure.
- Promoting Sustainable Communities: Encouraging active transportation aligns with state policies like Act 131, which prioritizes the development of multimodal, sustainable transportation networks.
Enhancing Emergency Preparedness
The Lahaina fire of August 2023 underscored the urgent need for alternative transportation routes in West Maui. WMG addresses this critical gap by:
- Providing an Emergency Evacuation Route: Offering a reliable, congestion-free pathway for residents to safely evacuate during natural disasters.
- Creating a Fire Barrier: Acting as a buffer zone to slow the spread of wildfires and provide clear access for emergency responders.
- Improving Disaster Response: Enabling faster deployment of resources and personnel during emergencies by offering an alternative to the overburdened two-lane Honoapiilani Highway.
Aligning with State and County Plans
WMG has been consistently prioritized in key planning documents:
- Vision Zero Initiatives: Reducing traffic fatalities and improving safety for all road users.
- Maui County Lahaina Long-Term Recovery Plan: Identified as a critical project to enhance resilience, safety, and sustainability in West Maui.
- Complete Streets Policy (Act 54): Aligns with efforts to create streets that are safe and accessible for all users, including cyclists and pedestrians.
- West Maui Community Plan: Supports goals for a connected transportation network that integrates neighborhoods, businesses, and recreational areas.
Advancing Economic and Workforce DevelopmenT
WMG fosters economic growth and community empowerment by:
- Creating Green Jobs: Supporting workforce development in sustainable construction, maintenance, and operations.
- Boosting Local Business Opportunities: Encouraging the development of small businesses along the greenway, such as bike rental shops, cafes, and community markets.
Addressing Equity & AccessibilityWMG prioritizes equity by:
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Why Your Support Matters
As a government official, your leadership is critical to turning the WMG vision into reality. By supporting this project, you are investing in:
Contact Us to Learn More | Explore the WMG Master Plan
- A safer, more connected Maui.
- A resilient infrastructure that protects communities from climate-related disasters.
- A transportation system that meets the needs of future generations.
Contact Us to Learn More | Explore the WMG Master Plan