I am a resident and registered voter living in Kihei, moving here in 2011. I have become aware of the planned malls on Piilani Highway.
I am aware this is a complicated and complex process. I will not pretend to understand what went on, when it went on or why it went on.
However, I would like to bring to your attention two probable outcomes of these malls that concern me. One is the impact on the traffic signal at Piilani Highway where the Kihei Commercial Center is now.
At 7:15 on a recent morning, I was traveling north on Piilani Highway, heading for the Kihei Commercial Center. Traffic was backed up in both lanes from the traffic light past the gas station as large equipment moved through that intersection. With the number of potential cars heading to the mall shops, this intersection will become a nightmare for locals, for emergency equipment and for shop owners already in the area.
My second concern is for the local shop owners in that area and throughout Kihei, in particular. Can they continue to thrive or even survive against two malls full of shops? Money spent on Maui stays on Maui. Money spent on stores based on the Mainland goes to the Mainland.
I moved to Maui to live closer to nature and to enjoy fresh air, less traffic and a slower pace in life. I am extremely upset that I may be coexisting with huge buildings, asphalt and traffic.
Paula Baldwin
Kihei
