Maui County's Water and Infrastructure Committee is making strides towards enhancing local infrastructure with a significant focus on relocating a substation to facilitate the Kahua Extension project. During a recent meeting, committee members discussed the urgency of providing clarity to Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO) regarding the relocation, which is essential for advancing their design plans.

The funding for this initiative is expected to come from the 2025 fiscal year Capital Improvement Projects (CIP), with a deadline for allocation by December. This financial support will be crucial for acquiring the necessary lands to proceed with the project. The committee emphasized the importance of outreach to property owners in the area, particularly those whose land may be affected by the relocation and extension efforts.

Efforts are already underway to communicate with local residents about their needs and interests, especially as several properties are nearing completion or are currently under construction. The committee aims to minimize disruption while ensuring that public infrastructure developments can move forward smoothly.

Additionally, discussions touched on the alignment of the Dickinson extension, which is linked to Kamehameha Schools' master planning project. The proposed changes could lead to a new connection point closer to the aquatic center, reflecting a shift from earlier plans that aimed for a more direct route.

As these projects progress, the committee remains committed to engaging with the community and ensuring that infrastructure improvements align with local needs and development goals. The next steps will involve further discussions on zoning changes and the overall impact of these developments on the community.