A new workforce housing project in Lahaina is aimed at helping address housing challenges for teachers and school staff. Photo courtesy Hawaii Department of Education

A new 47-unit workforce housing development for educators has opened in Lahaina, aimed at easing housing challenges that have affected teacher retention on Maui following the 2023 Lahaina fire.

The $20 million project, developed by Dowling Co. in partnership with the state Department of Education, offers affordable rental units for public school teachers and staff. Educators began moving into the rental units last month.

Officials say the project addresses one of the biggest barriers to maintaining a stable school workforce, particularly in West Maui, where housing costs have risen sharply since the 2023 fire.

“We’re taking a real step toward supporting our workforce and strengthening our schools here on Maui,” Superintendent Keith Hayashi said during a Saturday blessing performed by cultural practitioner Wilmont Kahaiali’i. “This project also reflects what’s possible when we move with urgency and purpose — breaking ground in May of last year and already welcoming educators into their new homes last month.”

Hayashi thanked Gov. Josh Green for his support and for helping secure $9 million in funding.

Officials in attendance included Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen, West Maui Sen. Angus McKelvey and Rep. Elle Cochran, along with tenants and community members.

“When we stood here last year, we had a shared commitment that we would support our educators and help stabilize Lahaina. That’s exactly what this project is doing today,” Bissen said.

The name of the development, Ke ʻAla Punia, was gifted by Lahainaluna High School kumu Eva Palakiko. Meaning “permeating fragrance,” Ke ʻAla Punia is meant to symbolize the idea that educators nurture students, families and the broader community, with their knowledge and care spreading outward like a fragrance that fills and uplifts Lahaina.

A bedroom inside one of the newly built units in Lahaina is shown. Photo courtesy Hawaii Department of Education

The development includes 47 units on about 5 acres above Princess Nāhiʻenaʻena Elementary and below Lahainaluna. Rental rates start at $1,469 for a one-bedroom unit and $1,733 for a two-bedroom, with additional subsidies available for eligible employees.

The complex is intended for educators and Department of Education staff, with rents structured so qualifying tenants pay no more than 30% of their household income.

“This is the only place that I can stay,” said Nathan Pallett, a Lahainaluna alumnus and teacher at the high school who’s also one of the project’s new residents. “Post-fire, a one-bedroom unit is like $2,000 a month. This makes it much more affordable. And the commute to work is pretty convenient.”