The County of Maui and the State Department of Land and Natural Resources are nearing completion of the Amala Place clean-up in Kahului. Today, County employees and contractors successfully removed 13 remaining derelict vehicles and 8 more tons of solid waste from the area. 

Amala Place will be closed tomorrow from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. to allow for thorough cleaning, including a magnetic sweep for small metal objects such as used hypodermic needles to protect public safety. Amala Place and the Amala gate to Kanaha Beach Park will reopen as planned on Friday, Sept. 24. 

Since the cleanup began on Monday, social workers were able to assist 8 individuals to move into shelter with support services, and 11 have moved out of the area. As of today, five occupants remain temporarily camped on privately owned land. Two are planning to move into shelter tomorrow and the other three will relocate by Friday at the landowner’s request.

“I understand how disruptive change can be,” said Mayor Michael Victorino. “But I truly believe this is a change for the better for everyone concerned. Area occupants were able to get a new start in clean, safe accommodations with services to help them move ahead. 

I want to thank Maui Police Department and DOCARE officers, as well as area occupants, for their cooperation throughout this effort. And finally, mahalo to the many dedicated County and State employees and contractors who actually did the hard work of transforming a dangerous roadway into a safe road within a few days.” 

Additional “No Trespassing” signs are being installed on the public lands lining Amala Place. MPD officers will regularly patrol the area to ensure it remains clear, safe and accessible to the public.

The Amala Place gate will remain locked until 7 a.m., Friday, Sept. 24. Access to Kanaha Beach Park will be through Koeheke/Ka`a Street until that time.