Lahaina News, March 21, 2013
HONOLULU - The state House Finance Committee approved a state budget that includes more than $22 million in capital improvement projects for West Maui.
The items include appropriations to provide crosswalks on Lahainaluna Road and improvements to Princess Nahi'ena'ena Elementary, Lahaina Intermediate and Lahainaluna High School.
West and South Maui Rep. Angus McKelvey, chair of the Consumer Protection and Commerce Committee, called the funding allocation "a huge milestone for the future of the public schools in our district."
Additionally, funding for repair and maintenance of Honoapiilani Highway is included in the House bill, which also addresses shoreline erosion issues along the roadway.
"One of my greatest joys in serving as a state representative is personally listening to the concerns of my constituents. When Lisa Cabingas shared her manao with me about the lack of crosswalks on Lahainaluna Road near both Nahi'ena'ena Elementary and Lahaina Intermediate schools, we made them the highest priority projects," McKelvey said.
"I am extremely grateful to my fellow House members, particularly Speaker Souki and Representative Yamashita, who prioritized the safety needs of our keiki," McKelvey said.
Highlights of the House CIP Budget for West Maui for the 2014-15 Fiscal Years include $12 million to begin construction of a new classroom building at Princess Nahi'ena'ena Elementary School and $600,000 for ground and site improvements, including the installation of a PA system for the entire campus; $8.593 million for improvements along Honoapiilani Highway, including shoreline erosion mitigation; $750,000 for a new classroom building at Lahaina Intermediate School; $750,000 for construction and improvements to Lahaina Small Boat Harbor; $150,000 for crosswalks on Lahainaluna Road; and $54,000 for renovations to the shower and locker room at Lahainaluna High School.
House Bill 200 now heads to the Senate Ways and Means Committee for further review and action.
Once approved by the House and Senate, funds are released at the discretion of the governor.
