Rebuilding Lahaina: Some Issues to Consider

Question

I know people are wondering when, and how, Lahaina will be rebuilt. That's natural, and to be expected. But what *isn't* natural is Hawaii law, and a number of other factors which must be considered in ANY discussions about rebuilding any of Lahaina, esp the Front Street "town" area.

First, there will be, and already is--major push back from some Native Hawaiian activist groups. As I predicted to some friends early on, some of them will claim Lahaina should never be rebuilt. They have in fact started demanding that. They are a minority and also not using their heads..........without the town many, many people in West Maui will never be able to survive or rebuild their lives-including Native Hawaiians. It is like the arguments about beach replenishment--how can everyone possibly "win"? They can't.

There has to be compromise, and hopefully, in time, cooler heads and respected Kumu will be able to help lead things into a positive and forward approach. Like anything, no one can have all their wishes when it is privately owned land---these are not public lands deeded for conservation, for example. The State or County can't possibly afford to buy it all, either.

As I discussed with a couple of friends recently, I DO think Front Street should be left as a pedestrian "mall" or walkway. One suggested having a "memory walk" along it with placards. What an awesome idea she had! If she gives me permission I'd love to post her name :-).

It could have trellised rest spots with benches, and placards or QR codes leading to what was once at that place. We kicked it around and I have with a few others since. We all agree it could be a tasteful and respectful way to memorialize ALL the victims, from Native Hawaiian times to now. From it being the first Royal Capitol of Hawaii forward, there is so much wonderful history to be shared and taught.

I firmly believe the closest building to what was Front Street should be about a half block or more farther mauka (towards the mountain). Not just respect, but due to climate change and erosion. Much or what burned on the makai (ocean side) was already highly endangered. It should NEVER be rebuilt.

Proper planning and underground utilities are also desperately needed, no matter what the final plan is. Better construction, a sensible layout, and multiple ingress/egress routes. A living town with *good* housing of various types and price ranges for people to live and raise families again.

Here's the rub: Hawaii Law. Not only is the entire area a National Historic Site and Landmark District, it of course falls under all our environmental and Native Hawaiian building/excavation laws. That means multiple environmental studies, Special Management Area permits, Water studies, Archaeological studies, Tsunami/Flood studies, and more. If Amberloo is lurking, he could explain this process far, far better than me. I wish and hope he will, if he sees this.

We already know a large Ancient Hawaiian graveyard exists across from what was 505 Front St., at Moku'ula. The graveyards at Waiola Church held some Native Hawaiians, and so do other areas in town, according to stories.

All of this is to warn people that Lahaina will not start rebuilding for years, IME and opinion. I would look to cleanup and some type of 'rest' period before any project is seriously promoted or submitted. It will require a Hui of good and strong people to reach a workable compromise that will benefit those surviving and those lost both-plus those to come in the future.

Again, these are merely my thoughts and opinions, based on most of my life in and around Maui. I could be all wrong but to be honest...I doubt it. Try to understand as time progresses that rebuilding homes, shops, restaurants and such is simply NOT easy here.

Live aloha,

Answer

The rebuilding of Lahaina is indeed a complex issue that will involve multiple factors—cultural, environmental, and legal—that need to be carefully considered. One of the first things to note is the significant pushback from some Native Hawaiian activist groups who argue that Lahaina should not be rebuilt. They believe the town, given its cultural significance and the tragic history associated with it, should not return to its previous form. While this view represents a minority, it is important to recognize their perspective on protecting Native Hawaiian heritage and history.

However, there is a strong argument to be made that the rebuilding of Lahaina is crucial for the survival of the people in West Maui, including Native Hawaiians, who rely on the town for their livelihoods. Without Lahaina's economy and infrastructure, many individuals and families would face significant challenges in rebuilding their lives. This creates a difficult situation where compromise and finding a balance is necessary for the well-being of the community.

As for specific ideas for rebuilding, one suggestion that seems to have gained some support is the idea of preserving Front Street as a pedestrian walkway or "memory walk." This could be a powerful way to honor the history and victims of the fires while still allowing for development and revitalization. The concept of adding placards or QR codes to commemorate what once stood at certain points could allow future visitors to reflect on the rich history of Lahaina, from its time as the first Royal Capitol of Hawaii to its role in modern history.

Another important consideration is the impact of climate change and the need to plan for the future. Rebuilding too close to the ocean, especially on the makai (ocean) side of Front Street, could be dangerous due to the threat of erosion and rising sea levels. It would be wise to move any new development further mauka (toward the mountains) to mitigate these risks, which would also provide a safer environment for future generations.

There are several critical infrastructural improvements that need to be addressed as well, including better construction standards, underground utilities, and multiple access points for ingress and egress. This would not only help make Lahaina more resilient to future disasters but also create a more sustainable community where families can live and thrive. The idea of diverse housing options, catering to different income levels, would ensure that Lahaina is a vibrant, living town with a variety of opportunities for residents.

However, Hawaii's legal framework presents another set of challenges. Lahaina is part of a National Historic Site and Landmark District, which means that any development must adhere to strict environmental and cultural preservation laws. These include numerous studies such as environmental impact assessments, archaeological surveys, and flood and tsunami risk evaluations. The process of securing the necessary permits and approvals will take years, and it’s unlikely that serious rebuilding efforts will begin anytime soon.

Additionally, the area contains several ancient Hawaiian burial sites, such as the graveyard at Moku'ula and others near Waiola Church. These sites must be treated with the utmost respect, and careful planning will be required to ensure that any rebuilding efforts do not disturb these sacred areas.

In conclusion, rebuilding Lahaina is a long-term project that will take years to properly address. The process will require extensive consultation with Native Hawaiian leaders, environmental experts, and the local community to create a plan that honors the past while ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future. While it may be difficult for some to understand, this process will take time, and there will be setbacks along the way. It is essential to approach this task with patience, respect, and a willingness to compromise for the greater good.

Rebuilding Lahaina: Some Issues to Consider

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