A “much-needed” project to replace the Napili public beach access stairs is moving forward after the state released $75,000 for the project, Rep. Angus McKelvey announced Monday.

The funding will cover the design and construction for the replacement of the existing access stairs, which have become derelict, according to McKelvey, who represents West Maui. He added that the old stairs were built before environmental awareness, and that with careful planning and design and working with the community, the stairs can be replaced and beach access can be restored while preventing further erosion.

“I want to thank Governor Ige for expeditiously releasing funds so this important entryway can be replaced with a more environmentally friendly version that will make it safe for people to access the beach,” McKelvey said in a news release. “The community is obviously anxious for these renovations to begin and getting these funds released is an important first key step.”