State's Economic Spotlight Shines on Maui

During his remarks, Lt. Governor Aiona said there are reasons for businesspeople to be optimistic about Maui's future as the Administration focuses on developing its airports, harbors, highways, renewable energy portfolio and workforce.

The Administration’s Airports Modernization Plan calls for investing more than $115 million in improvements for the Kahului Airport.

“Our Airports Modernization Plan will improve the travel experience for residents and visitors, facilitate the transport of cargo, and assist the operations of airlines,” Lt. Governor Aiona told an estimated 200 businesspeople who gathered in Wailea at the Fairmont Kealani Hotel.

He added that the Administration is also committed to improving the Kahului Harbor, the state’s third largest port, where approximately $118 million in upgrades are planned, which includes improvements to the Hana Bay dock. That’s in addition to other transportation projects such as the recent dedication of the Mokulele Highway, a project aimed at alleviating traffic headaches and improving the quality of life for Maui residents.

“It also helps improve Maui’s economy, allowing for faster commutes, travel by tourists, and transport of goods,” Lt. Governor Aiona said.

Other priorities include developing more Maui students with marketable skills in science, technology, engineering and math, a key part of the Administration’s innovation initiative, Lt. Governor Aiona said.

“This will prepare our young people and workforce for a global economy built on innovation,” Lt. Governor Aiona said.

The Lt. Governor punctuated his remarks by highlighting Maui’s innovative projects to advance clean energy in Hawai`i. Maui will be home to the first wave energy project in the United States and the first test site for the National Wind Technology Center outside its headquarters in Colorado.

“Energy independence does more than free us from high energy costs,” Lt. Governor Aiona said. “It diversifies the economy, generates new business ventures, advances technological solutions and develops a skilled workforce.”

“Maui has been a leader in this effort,” he added. “We know that there is considerable work ahead, but we are committed to helping all businesses prosper in Hawai‘i.”