West Maui residents in the Kuhua Camp area and along Lahainaluna Road can once again flush with confidence, as the County of Maui Department of Environmental Management (DEM) has officially flipped the script from red to green for 28 local properties. In layman's terms, this signal shift means that after a period of non-service due to fire damage, these properties are now fully reconnected to active sewer service. The color-coded sewer service update was provided by DEM Director Shayne Agawa last Wednesday, during the community's weekly Disaster Recovery meeting in Lahaina.
A flicker of normalcy returns to an area still grappling with the effects of the wildfires that swept through in August 2023. To swiftly restore services to the community has been a testament not only to the resilience of the residents but to the commitment of the county's disaster recovery efforts. To check whether your home or business remains impacted, the Department has made it convenient to peruse—the Maui Recovers website offers an interactive map that only requires your address to verify your service status. According to their announcement, residents can expect more of these welcome updates in the coming weeks and months.
The wildfires' blaze had initially left a mark on Maui's infrastructure, creating disruptions in wastewater service that extended beyond just inconvenience. The amended status to green for these properties does not just signify repaired pipes or re-established connections; it stands as a minor victory in the ongoing battle to rebuild, recover, and reconnect amidst the aftermath that still haunts the community.
Should there be any uncertainties or queries regarding sewer service, the Wastewater Reclamation Division is reaching out a helping hand. They have opened their lines at (808) 270-7417, where residents can get their questions addressed, or seek further clarification. As these updates continue to trickle in, the inhabitants of Lahaina and its environs can look forward to gradually witnessing a full return to the essential services that help to comprise the foundation of a fully functioning community.
For those guardians of the environment and concerned citizens eager to stay informed, you can follow live updates and obtain more detailed information by visiting the Maui County's official alert page at www.mauicounty.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=15970.
