The Maui County Budget, Finance, and Economic Development Committee convened on April 14, 2025, to address pressing infrastructure issues in South Maui, particularly concerning the anticipated population growth and its impact on local traffic.

During the meeting, a representative from the Kihei Community Association (KCA) highlighted significant concerns regarding the current road infrastructure in South Maui, which serves over 40,000 residents. The representative pointed out that the area is primarily reliant on two main roads: Piilani Highway and South Kihei Road. With over 7,000 new homes planned for construction in the next decade, the representative warned that the influx of vehicles could lead to severe traffic congestion, effectively turning Piilani Highway into a "parking lot."

To mitigate these issues, the KCA proposed the development of the Kihei Mauka Collector Road, which would connect Kanani Road in the south to Veterans Highway in the north. This new road would provide an additional egress point for South Maui, improving traffic flow and accessibility. The representative noted that some developers have already committed to constructing portions of this road, but emphasized the need for county and state funding to complete the remaining sections.

The committee discussed the importance of including budget allocations for the planning stages of this project to ensure timely progress as the region continues to grow. The representative expressed concern over conflicting information regarding funding responsibilities, indicating that while county officials suggested the state would cover costs, state representatives had not confirmed this commitment.

The meeting underscored the urgency of addressing infrastructure needs in light of rapid development in South Maui, with the KCA advocating for proactive measures to enhance transportation and prevent future congestion. The committee's discussions will likely influence budgetary decisions in the upcoming fiscal planning for 2025-2027.