The filing of a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the Mākena Mauka master-planned community project in South Maui marks a crucial step in its development. According to Maui Now's recent report, the project's environmental review has been submitted to the state Office of Planning and Sustainable Development. This development, situated within the Mākena Golf & Beach Club, aims to create a residential community that integrates resort elements while preserving open spaces.
The project, initially announced with an Environmental Impact Statement Preparation Notice (EISPN) in June 2024, has been designed with a commitment to community amenities and historic preservation, as described in The Maui News. The developers aim to include diverse residential options, including market-rate homes, workforce housing, and multi-family units. The developers also plan to engage extensively with the community and incorporate feedback from local homeowners and cultural groups, according to The Maui News.
The project’s evolution from its initial plans suggests a focus on aligning with community needs and environmental considerations. The final EIS has been released for Ledcor Maui’s South Maui Properties, which covers several vacant parcels that aim to provide workforce housing and prioritize environmental concerns, as reported by Maui Now. The developer’s commitment to LEED Silver certification for all housing types underscores a commitment to sustainability. Further, the project is expected to undergo separate Special Management Area and Planned Development permit processes, offering further opportunities for public input.
For businesses and investors in Maui, the Mākena Mauka project presents a complex picture. While the development could stimulate the real estate market and create construction and service-related jobs, it also raises questions about infrastructure, traffic, and the preservation of Maui's unique cultural and environmental assets. Businesses that align with the projects’s sustainable development goals may find opportunities through collaboration or service provision. The public comment period for the DEIS provides an important opportunity for stakeholders to voice their perspectives and influence the project’s trajectory. Investors and entrepreneurs should carefully evaluate the project's potential impacts and opportunities, keeping in mind the evolving local regulatory environment and the community's priorities.
